All summer, Central Oregon libraries are offering fun activities for kids of all ages. This year’s theme is “Dig into Reading,” which means the libraries are focusing on all things dirt-related from dinosaur bones to construction equipment.

Adults, too, can get in on the action (see “Adult Summer Reading Program,” Page E3).

Heather McNeil, the youth services program manager for the Deschutes Public Library system, says last summer was the library system’s most successful year in terms of youth participation.

Last year, 4,432 children 11 or younger, 1,330 teenagers and 1,726 adults participated in the summer reading programs at Deschutes libraries.

Every child who participates will receive a free book, plus the chance to win more prizes.

This year, kids participating in Deschutes County will get the chance to win a bike, thanks to Bend Masonic Lodge. Two bikes will be awarded at each library to participating children in the Bikes for Books program.

McNeil is excited about several special programs this year. The library system is again hosting slumber parties at the Downtown Bend and East Bend public libraries for children ages 6-11 to attend along with a parent. “It was a grand success. We had a blast last year,” said McNeil.

Another successful event returning this year is a lockout for teens. Teenagers will take over the downtown Bend library on one evening and staff members will offer all sorts of fun teen-centric events and activities.

McNeil is also excited about this year’s “Story Star” Joe Hayes. He is an author and a Spanish- and English-speaking storyteller, perhaps best known for his book about a gum-chewing rattlesnake. Hayes will perform a free show at Bend’s Tower Theatre for all ages. The library system will also offer a series of storytelling events called “Storytelling at Sunset” throughout July.

Another event will bring large construction and farming equipment to the Downtown Bend and Redmond libraries.