The force was with dozens of kids recently as they attended a “Star Wars” party at the East Chicago Public Library.
The mission was to kick off the Summer Reading Program, “Reading Takes You Everywhere,” and the agenda included games, demonstrations, trivia and a visit from the Northern Darkness Garrison of the 501st Legion.
“I know a lot about Star Wars,” said Arianna Howard, 8, as she posed for pictures with the costumed characters. “This is fun.”
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The celebration also gave the children an opportunity to try their artistic skills, as they took instruction from library employee Rosa Garcia on how to create a picture of C-3PO.
“I think I’m doing pretty good,” said Amaiyah Hall, 7, as she put crayon to paper. “You just have to take your time.”
In the library’s Meeting Room, library employees offered refreshments, as well as a large inter-galactic theme backdrop along a long wall — for those inclined to take advantage of photo opportunities.
“This library always has fun stuff; I used to go here all the time when I lived in East Chicago,” said Brianne Parker, 14, of Merrillville. “I’m here with my cousins and they are getting that same kind of fun I had.”
This year’s theme is intended to motivate participants to use their imagination to take them all over the world through reading — even if it’s to a galaxy far, far, away.
“My grandkids love ‘Star Wars,’ just like my own kids did,” said Donise Harris of East Chicago, with a laugh. “I even like the story myself — the characters really are ‘out of this world.’”
The event was presented through a partnership with the Foundations of East Chicago and open to the public.
“My kids are too little to join the Summer Reading program, but I wanted to see what this library had to offer,” said Patrice Jellison of East Chicago, as she looked over the day’s activity list. “We just moved from Chicago a few months ago, and I’m getting to know my neighborhood.”
Visitors moved through the 12 stations set up throughout the library, which included a coloring area and a table to make a puppet, among others.
“I do like to draw and make things, and I use lot of color,” said Jadin Parker, 8, as he tried to decide which station he wanted to go to first. “I really do have to try them all before we leave, no matter how long they take.”
That’s just the kind of determination the library likes to see from its visitors.
“Our reading program this summer can take the children wherever they want to go,” said Pam Bartusiewicz, associate director of the library’s Children Department. “Anywhere on earth, the sky, the sea, etc. — anywhere.”
Northern Darkness Garrison represents Northern Indiana in the 501st Legion, a worldwide charitable organization that promotes interest in Star Wars and Star Wars costuming while giving back to local communities through volunteering, fundraising and other charitable activities.
The East Chicago Library offers many programs and events throughout the year for all ages. For more information, call (219) 397-2453.