The Rock Island Public Library’s Hug-a-Book series for pre-kindergarteners returns to an in-person format with a free Saturday art program in Longview Park on August 21. Registration is open now for Hug-A-Book: Create, a free artistic play event for two-to-five-year-olds and their families.  The outdoor event takes place from 11 am to noon on Saturday, August 21 in Longview Park, 1300 17^th Street, Rock Island. 

Hug-A-Book: Create offers a choice of three process-art projects designed for the learning needs of toddlers and preschoolers. Process art is an open-ended experience that focuses on the process of creating, and not the end result. By letting the child experiment and play with art materials, kids tap into discovery and self-directed learning. Each child will receive a free art apron and a new book to keep.  (Even with the apron, old clothes are recommended. Creativity is messy!) 

The Library2Go mobile bookmobile will also appear at the event, to allow families to check out books to take home and read together.  Families can also sign up or renew library cards. The mobile library also takes returns and offers WiFi. 

Registration is required. To sign up, visit the library event calendar or call the Children’s Room at 309-732-7360. 

For more library events and services, visit the library website, call 309-732-READ or follow the Rock Island Library on social media. 

25 years of growing young readers: Hug-A-Book began in October 1996, as the result of a generous endowment to the Rock Island Public Library Foundation from Bernice and Stanley Harris, in the memory of their daughter, Merrill.