Guernsey Memorial Library offers several programs for kids, which are transitioning back to in-person after the pandemic. All programs are free and most do not require registration. (Photo by Sarah Giglio)

NORWICH — This summer, the Guernsey Memorial Library will be offering several programs for kids, aimed at being both fun and educational.

Children's Librarian Kim Hazen said it's important to her to do these programs so that kids learn that the library is a fun place, while also being educational.

"Mostly it's to try to get the kids to associate the library with having fun, and getting them something fun to do. But also educational too," she said.

Hazen said the programs include a Lego Club, art programs, story times, visiting performers, and more.

"We have Lego Club, we have art programs, we do story times, we usually have crafts, and this summer we have a story walk, we have a graphic novel club. We have performers that come, and usually with COVID we kind of have half outside and half online," she explained.

The Summer Story Time is the library's most popular program, according to Hazen. She said it's a combination of reading and activities, aimed at teaching young children how to read.

"I do the book and we do crafts, and usually we'll have felt board activities and songs and stuff like that," said Hazen. "Eventually the goal is to try to get them reading themselves. So the more language you expose them to, the quicker that they'll be reading on their own."