The St. Tammany Parish Library’s 2008 Summer Reading program “Be a Star Read!” wrapped up its annual reading extravaganza with some record breaking numbers.

Children from across the parish, 6,700 to be exact, enrolled in the library’s premiere summertime program that, through events and activities, encourages children to read.

The program this year raked in several hundred more children than last year, but Children’s Coordinator Tanya DiMaggio was reluctant to release last year’s totals because she said they aren’t comparing this year to years past. Instead, she said, they are starting over because the last few years’ enrollment numbers were tainted thanks to Katrina. The largest participation this summer was logged at the Slidell branch, where almost 2,500 children enrolled in the program, she said. Covington wasa distant runner-up at 1,209.

Children from birth to 7 years old who accomplished their 25-book goal were given a special reading certificate of achievement and the coveted Star Reader medal, which DiMaggio said helped promote their self esteem.

“I think the children who participated should be very proud of themselves,” she said. “2008 was definitely a success.”

Children 7 to 11 years old who read at least 10 books on their own received the Star Reader medal. They also had the opportunity to earn commemorative patches by reading additional texts. A special program was also set up for teenagers.

DiMaggio said the 2008 program also held several events that had children kissing pigs, singing pirate shanties with Captain Papillion and performing magic with magician Tricky Trigg.

Children also kicked it up a notch with Team Nola Extreme Martial Arts and Just For Kicks ATA Black Belt Academy after grooving and moving with the Komenka Ethnic Dance and Music Ensemble.

The library also hosted local wildlife presentations by the Audubon Institute’s Wetlands Express.

DiMaggio said the fun is just beginning, and parents should check out their local branch or visit www.sttammany.lib.la.us.