By Stephanie Reister

Rowan Public Library

While libraries target many of their summer programs at children and teens, it’s also important for adults to find some time for reading. Rowan Public Library has been running an adult summer reading program along with other fun and instructional programs. When you find the time to visit the library and pick up some books, you can give your mind more spark.

We’ve all heard the phrase “use it or lose it” as well as the numerous studies on Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Two commonly mentioned ways to counteract memory loss are engaging your brain and social interaction. The library can certainly help with both of those.

Reading is one of those great ways to keep your mind sharp. Whether you read fiction or non-fiction, you’ll be doing your brain a favor. Also try reading something you normally wouldn’t pick up or about a new activity you want to try. When you change things up a little, the better your brain will respond to ordinary tasks.

Summer is also the perfect time to share the habit of reading with young family members. It’s always a good idea for parents and grandparents to model reading behavior around children. Kids of all ages notice the reading habits of the adults closest to them. Toddlers and preschoolers respond by mimicking reading, while school-aged kids grow to enjoy picking out books and reading for themselves.

You may have a chance to take a family vacation or at least spend a little extra quiet time together. Whether you read to little ones or spend family time together reading different materials, you’ll be promoting literacy and the family social bond.

Speaking of being social, you can accomplish the public interaction aspect by visiting the library regularly. Getting out of the house to be around others at the library can be just what the doctor ordered. And RPL’s calendar is brimming much of the time with programs and exhibits for all interests.

There are still two summer fun programs coming up for adults at RPL Headquarters. On Monday, July 23, at 6:30 p.m., Eric Upton from Oasis School of Music in China Grove will lead a class in guitar instruction. All ages are welcome and there is no limit on number of participants. Bring your guitar, a pick and your willingness to learn.

The Adult Summer Reading Finale will be Monday, Aug. 13 at 6:30 p.m. Adults and families are invited to participate in a game of “Name that Tune.” The music will span several genres, including Disney tunes, 1960s rock-and-roll, and contemporary favorites. Grand prizes will also be awarded, which includes $250 worth of Amazon gift cards.

Summer Reading: Registration is open for all age groups, children, teen and adults. Consult your nearest branch for details. Headquarters, 704-216-8228; East, 704-216-7838; South 704-216-7727.

School age summer reading program: Lee Street theatre. Enjoy inventive and exciting storytelling from versatile actors. While the School Age Summer Reading program is designed for rising 1st through 5th graders, all ages are welcome; an adult must accompany children under 9. Tuesday, 2 p.m., South; Wednesday, 2 p.m., East; Thursday, 10 a.m., Cleveland, and 2 p.m., headquarters.

Teen summer reading: Dance and choreography — learn basic dance moves and skills in this beginner-friendly class. Monday, 3:30 p.m., East; Tuesday, 3:30 p.m., headquarters; Thursday, 3:30 p.m., South.

National Teen Lock-In: Headquarters, Friday, July 27, starting at 6 p.m. Teens will play life-sized board games, take part in an escape room, sit in on author chats streamed via Google Hangouts, and have the chance to compete in a Lip-Sync Battle. A permission slip signed by a parent or guardian is required for teens to participate. Teens must register for at least one of the author chats to be able to attend.

SECU Storytime: South, July 31, 10:30 a.m. It’s never too early for children to begin learning basic finance principles. This storytime, sponsored by the State Employees Credit Union, includes stories and coloring activities. This financial literacy program is free; all ages welcome. For more details, call 704-216-7728.

Book Bites Club: South, July 31, 6 p.m. “Little House on the Prairie” by Laura Ingalls Wilder. Refreshments will be served, and new members are welcome. Questions? Contact Jennifer at Jennifer.Hubbard@rowancountync.gov.

Displays: Headquarters, Piedmont Players and Carolina Historic Metal Detecting Group, agriculture in gallery exhibit; East, hand-crafted jewelry by Myrtis Trexler; South, lunchbox memorabilia by Sharon Ross.

Literacy: Call the Rowan County Literacy Council at 704-216-8266 for more information on teaching or receiving literacy tutoring for English speakers or for those for whom English is a second language.