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Elementary schoolchildren can do their summer reading closer to home during the weekly open-library programs at seven of Quincy's elementary schools.
Once a week, the Atherton Hough, Beechwood Knoll, Bernazzani, Lincoln Hancock, Marshall, Snug Harbor and Squantum elementary schools are opening their libraries to the public so children and their parents can visit, listen to stories and borrow books.
On Wednesday, the Lincoln Hancock Elementary School opened its library for the second time this summer. This its first year of participation in the open-library program. School officials hope to add activities like coloring and crafts as the summer goes on.
Keith Segalla, director of extension and continuing education for Quincy's public schools, attended Tuesday's open-library session at the Lincoln Hancock School. Segalla said money for the necessary staffing comes from grants.
Kennex Lam, 8, and Jennifer Nguyen, 7, of Quincy attended the session on Wednesday as part of the day camp they are attending.
Asked what she liked most about coming to the library, Kennex said, "We get to listen to a book."

Deborah Barrett, Lincoln Hancock librarian, read a story aloud to almost two dozen children. "It's the start of something wonderful," she said.

There is no registration required and the program is free. Some schools are requiring children to come with a parent; others let the children come in unsupervised.
"Our ultimate goal is to have all 11 (elementary) schools open," said Lois Blowers, who is helping promote the open- library program.
Olivia Palazzi, 7, and Michaela Pettinelli, 7, both students at Lincoln Hancock, attended Tuesday's session. They returned the books they borrowed last week and browsed for new ones. Both girls were excited about the program and liked having the opportunity to borrow books.
"Our goal with keeping the libraries open and coming up with summer reading lists is to keep the kids reading all summer," Barrett said.

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