SOUTHAMPTON, Mass. -  Youth librarian Andrea LeClair spent Monday working on "Take and Make" crafts kits for students. They’re part of Southampton Public Library’s summer reading program and are meant to engage young people while adding a little creativity into the learning.

"I think arts and crafts are important for everybody, no matter what style learner you are, no matter if you're really sporty kid or if you're just an introvert and you want to stay and be quiet," LeClair said. "There is lots of opportunity to explore what it is you like, what it is you're good at."

LeClair said summer reading programs are important because it keeps kids from losing any of the progress they made during the school year. But, it’s still over summer vacation so balancing the reading with creative activities can help keep students engaged.

"Kids want a break over the summer, they worked hard in school," she said. "So there should be activities that show just coming to the library is enough. Just being engaged and loving what you're doing is the way that you should be spending your summer." 

The summer reading program will run from June 26 to August 5. Families interested in signing up their children can do so on the library’s website.