Library program tells tales from under your bed

Dreams, things that go bump in the night, the sandman, toothfairies and things under your bed, are just a few of the wonderful topics children are discovering during this year's Corning Library Summer Reading Program.

"Our theme this summer is 'Dream Big, What's Under Your Bed,' and we are having a great time with all kinds of adventures and stories," said Tehama County Librarian Sally Ainsworth.

Each Tuesday at 10 a.m., Ainsworth reads to more than 40 children who sit in rapt attention listening to stories about the sandman, toothfairies, bears, lions, monsters, dreams and other things that haunt the night.

"One week we learned about nocturnal animals. Another week it was about the book 'Where the Wild Things Are,'" said Ainsworth. "We have made dreamcatchers, learned how to count sheep and next week everyone is invited to come in their pajamas and slippers. I'm going to wear my donkey slippers."

On Tuesday, Ainsworth invited the Sandman to join in the fun, much to the delight of the children.

The sandman led the kids in a round of The Sandman Says, and handed out delicious tasting "sand dust" to all. This was followed by the children having their pictures taken with the sandman and an activity of making hairy monster feet.

"We really have a lot of fun," Ainsworth said.

The reading program in Corning will have its big finale on July 31 with a party, book giveaway and a book swap.

The Corning Library is located at 740 Third St. For more information call 824-7050.