‘Participation tales’ storyteller to visit Gibson, Paseo Verde libraries July 12
HENDERSON, Nev. – Sometimes stories can be so engaging that the reader wants to take part in them, and that’s exactly what young readers will get to do this summer as Henderson Libraries hosts nationally renowned storyteller, Jim Cogan, as part of its Summer Reading Challenge.
As part of his I DIG STORIES tour, Cogan will visit the Gibson Library at 10 a.m. and the Paseo Verde Library at 2:30 p.m. on July 12, bringing with him a unique and engaging method of storytelling that’s been entertaining audiences of all ages for 22 years. Known as participation tales, Cogan engages children to take part in the story in a fun, humorous retelling of classics and original works alike.
“Jim has an uncanny ability to adapt stories to his current audience in a way that will make them live the tale,” said Linda Hanks, Paseo Verde Library children’s librarian. “Children love to participate in the stories, while parents get inspired to rethink how they tell them. It’s a great event for everyone.”
Cogan is known as one of the West’s most versatile and active storytellers. Featured at the National Storytelling Festival in Tennessee and highlighted on KCET-Storytime, a favorite at hundreds of schools, libraries and fairs, Cogan melds his exuberant Irish personality and experiences into whimsical, adventurous, playful, humorous and dramatic tales that catch the attention of families and story lovers of all ages.
“Jim’s vibrant storytelling is a great example of how reading isn’t limited to being a solitary activity,” Hanks said. “The Summer Reading Challenge is all about showing people just how fun and interesting stories can be, and I wouldn’t be surprised if his storytelling inspires some of our participants to become storytellers in their own families.”
Organized by Henderson Libraries, the Summer Reading Challenge takes place June 8 through Aug. 24. The challenge encourages families to make reading a part of their summer by offering prizes that range from rewards out of a treasure box to tickets for Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay.
Those wanting to take part in the Summer Reading Program can register online at www.mypubliclibrary.com or in person at any of Henderson Libraries’ four locations. (Only those age 50-plus can register at the Heritage Park Library, as the Heritage Park facility is age-restricted.)
Established in 1943 as a single library in Downtown Henderson, Henderson Libraries operates four locations throughout Henderson. Henderson Libraries cooperates with other public libraries in Southern Nevada, the Nevada System of Higher Education, the Clark County School District and all other libraries around the state to provide quality service for Nevada’s residents.
For additional information on Henderson Libraries, visit www.mypubliclibrary.com or call 702-492-6581.