South West Illinois News

Students have a chance to go on something of a "safari" this summer, thanks to Rep. Dave Severin (R-Benton).

Benton is challenging kindergarten through fourth-grade students to take part in his "Summer Reading Safari" club, which tasks them with reading eight books to earn an invitation to an ice cream party in the fall.

“There are so many wonderful stories waiting to be read,” Severin said in a press release. “I believe the earlier you start reading the more likely you are to become a lifelong reader. That being said, I am hoping you will pick up a couple books this summer and join my reading club.”

District 117 students who wish to take part must collect a form at their local public library or print one from Severin’s website. As they complete a book, they must have their parent or guardian sign off on the form, which must be returned to Severin’s office by August 11.

Taking part are Marion Carnegie Library, West Frankfort Public Library, Crab Orchard Park Library in Marion, Herrin City Library, Benton Public Library, Zeigler Public Library, Sesser Public Library, Royalton Public Library, McCoy Memorial Library in McLeansboro, Johnston City Public Library, Christopher Public Library and Anne West Lindsey District Library in Carterville.