ROBERTSDALE, Alabama --- Local libraries are inviting youth to “Dream Big, Read,” as summer reading programs kick off next week.

The Robertsdale Public Library will host a kick off and registration for its Summer Reading Program on Tuesday, June 5, from 10 a.m. to noon.

The event will feature free ice cream, a petting zoo and a balloon launch.

Library Director Cynthia Nall said participants will be invited to write a not and place it inside a balloon with their name and the address of the library.

“When their balloon is returned, they will receive a prize,” Nall said.

The program will continue throughout June with activities scheduled every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, Nall said.

Beginning at 10 a.m. every Tuesday, there will be a story time for 3- and 4-year-olds, followed by a program for 10- to 12-year-olds beginning at 2 p.m.

“Our theme this year is ‘Dream Big, Read,” and we’re trying to serve as an inspiration that the sky’s the limit for our participants,” Nall said. “We’ve scheduled speakers that we hope the kids will be interested in and that will inspire them to ‘dream big.’”

On Tuesday, June 12, educators from the Dauphin Island Sea Labs will invite participants to explore the field of marine biology.

On Tuesday, June 19, Bob Parsons, founder of Walk About Puppets, will invite participants to explore the world of puppets. Meet Walk About Puppets members and enjoy excitng children’s theater.

On Tuesday, June 26, Deputy Coroner Dr. Brian Pierce will invite participants to explore the world of crime scene investigation and forensic science.

Every Wednesday at 10 a.m., there will be special entertainment for all ages at the PZK Civic Center on Highway 104 in Robertsdale.

Programs include:

— June 6: Charlie Williams the “Noise Guy.”

—  June 13: Mark Seymour “Be-at Your Best” lifting up students through drum and music.

—  June 20: Ekpe Abioto children's music and cultural entertainment.

—  June 27:     Mr. Billy, kids and family singer songrocker.

Every Wednesday at 2 p.m. will feature programs for 8- and 9-year-olds following the Dream Big, Read theme.

Programs include:

— June 6:: Veterinarian Dr. Michal Zimlich will present “Outfits of a Veterinarian.”

— June 13: Dauphin Island Sea Lab.

— June 20: The K-9 Unit from City of Orange Beach Police Department.

—  June 27: Dr. Brian Pierce.

Every Thursday at 11 a.m. the Alabama Gulf Coasst Zoo will bring animals for children of all ages to enjoy.

At 2 p.m. every Thursday, there will be a story time for children ages 5- to 7-years-old.

"We just want all parents to encourage their children to keep up with their reading over the summer," Nall said. "They can read for fun, that's OK, as long as they are reading."

The Robertsdale Public Library is located at 18301 Pennsylvania St. For more information call 947-8960.

Summerdale Library Director Cindy Suggs also invites library goers to “Dream Big, Read” with their Summer Reading Program, which will also hold a kickoff Tuesday, June 5 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Marjorie Younce Snook Public Library on Broadway Street.

Kickoff celebration will feature Charlie Williams, “The Noise Guy.”

Programs will be held every Tuesday throughout June from 10 a.m. to noon and will feature entertainment, story telling, crafts and refreshments centered around a camping theme.

For more inforamtion call the library at 251-989-2011, or to register  visit www.summerdalelibrary.com.