Lawrence Public Library’s summer reading program is in full swing.

But it’s not too late to participate.

Maria Butler, community relations coordinator, said people can sign up at anytime at the library, 707 Vt.

This year’s theme for adults and children is “Get a Clue @ Your Library.” The program is designed to encourage parents to read with their children. Adults also are urged to read four fiction or nonfiction books about mysteries.

“We encourage people to read outside their comfort zone – books they won’t normally read,” Butler said. But they may read other topics if they wish.

The adult program will kick off with an interactive mystery theater at 7 p.m. Friday; the deadline to sign up is today.

Although the adult program ends July 31, the children and teen programs continue until Aug. 31. In addition, activities are available almost daily for them to participate in.

The children’s events include magicians, musicians and Grassland Heritage Foundation’s Rolling Prairie Learning Lab. Children are encouraged to read or listen to 16 books this summer.

“Children do better in school if they continue to read through the summer,” Butler said.

Meanwhile, the theme for teenagers is “You Never Know @ Your Library.” Butler said the theme means anything can happen at the library, and she encourages teens to visit.

“Teens tend to stop participating at about 12 or 13 years old because they don’t like to be treated like children or lumped with children,” she said. So, the library has a distinct theme and activities for the age group.

The reading program encourages teens to take reading challenges or read 20 minutes a day. There will be a kickoff event at 2 p.m. Saturday that will feature Kansas Bureau of Investigation officers. They will talk about how to track fingertips and blood during a crime scene investigation.

Last year’s reading programs were a hit, with 2,777 people participating. Butler expects this year’s programs to enroll just as many if not more.

“It’s craziness here in the summertime,” she said. “Our usage has risen every year and we expect that to continue.”