The county library is gearing up for its free annual summer reading program for children of all ages.

“Kids entering grade 12 and younger are invited to stop by their local library this summer and join the 2011 Summer Reading Club,” said Anne Arundel County Public Library (AACPL) spokeswoman Laurie Hayes. “Students can sign up anytime, at any branch.”

All branches have suggested reading lists, with award-winning books that have been identified as suitable and appropriate for all grade levels.

The library’s club-related programs and activities start June 20 and run through July 30.

A special kickoff event will occur at the Annapolis Area Library branch on  Wednesday (June 22) from 2p.m.-5p.m.

For elementary age children and their families, local libraries are hosting several weeks of free special events, including:

• Joe Romano—Books! The Magic is Real! Appearing at the Annapolis Area Library branch on Thursday, June 30 at 1:30, 3:30 and 7 pm. This local entertainer promises to bring books to life through the art of magic and illusion, while using characters and plot lines from favorites like "Harry Potter" and "Diary of a Wimpy Kid."
• Pam Minor—Go Green with Pam and Rascal! Appearing at the Annapolis Area Library branch Tuesday, July 12 at 1:30, 3:30 and 7 pm. This interactive "green" show for all ages features stories and songs about the environment, providing reminders on how we can all appreciate and take care of Mother Earth.
• Mad Science—Things That Go Boom! Appearing at the Annapolis Area Library branch on Tuesday, July 19 at 9:30 and 11:30 am and 1:30 pm. The wonder of sound waves is featured in a spectacular science show featuring cool sound effects, amazing vibrations, colorful chemistry and radical reactions of all kinds. This show would be more for elementary ages.
• Jim Hossick—One World, Many StorySongs...with Kidsinger Jim. Appearing at the Annapolis Area Library branch Thursday, July 28 at 9:30 and 11:30 am and 1:30 pm. Kidsinger Jim provides original StorySongs, a combination of storytelling and songs, featuring memorable characters from around the world. This show would be fun for all ages.

Think your teen is too old for these programs? This year, middle and high school students have a special summer workshop just for them. Titled “Creative Cartooning,” this 90-minute event is led by local artist Michael Cotter and features demonstrations and exercises to develop drawing skills.

The cartoons will feature reflections on social issues and current events, such as bullying, social media and global warming, and some of the works will be featured on the library’s teen Facebook page.

The workshops will be held from 7-8:30 p.m. at:

• Annapolis Library, July 26

Registration is recommended and can be made by calling the local branch that is hosting the event.

As a new bonus this year, middle and high school students who “LIKE” the Anne Arundel County Public Library Teen Facebook page by midnight on July 2 are eligible to win an iPod Touch.

The library is also hosting a Summer Reading Night at the Bowie Baysox stadium, where reading program participants aged 16 and younger are recognized and get to march on the field in a celebration pre-game parade. The event will be held on July 24.

Get up-to-the-minute information on events and other library news on the AACPL Facebook page.