Summer’s the time to read in E. Meadow

“Boys, you’ve got to use your inside voices,” says librarian Donnamarie Hock to two elementary school children reading and playing near a computer.

It’s obvious which section in the East Meadow Public Library is dedicated to children. Their presence is immediately seen and heard as you enter the building. Bike racks stand rusty outside, but inside, a colorful, plush buzzard hangs from the children’s room, moms read to their youngest, and children zoom about in search of adventure.

Hock’s experience is noticed when an elementary school student asks for The Little Mermaid. “Have you read the traditional Little Mermaid story? I think you’ll really like it,” she responds.

There is no one way to choose the best book for children, Hock would agree. She says the key to keeping their attention is to discover their interests. Reluctance is common, even more among the boys, says Hock, but an entertaining book and parent interest is essential.

“We get parents in who haven’t been to the library in years, but they keep coming back for the kids,” she says.

Children are seen in the library year-round, says Hock, but in the summer it’s busier. Providing a popular, age-appropriate reading program, Diane Marron, mom to Bowling Green 5th grader Meghan, says her daughter has been involved in the program since 1st grade. “We love it; she loves it,” Diane Marron gestures to her daughter. “We’re going in to register now.”

Meghan, who looked to her mom before responding, likes mystery books the most and agrees the library offers a wide variety. However, she also picks books noted on her school reading list, which Hock offers to those who asks, but says the list is unrelated to the library.

To peak parent and child interest, the library offers classes geared toward infants and children of all ages, including an exclusive room and personal librarian for young adults. The program also offers special events throughout the year. This summer Grammy nominee children’s performer Brady Rymer will make an appearance and self-pronounce “Muggles” are welcome to day-long events featured immediately before the new Harry Potter flick is released.

While the library hosts events to attract new families, Hock says she’s watched many children grow up. “I’ve seen kids take their first steps here and now they’re this tall,” she says, gesturing with her hand. “This is the busiest spot in the library.”

The children’s library carries pictures books, books geared toward parents teaching their kid(s) to read, holiday books, reference books, non-fiction and fiction books, computers, audio books, movies, and a common area to convene and read.