Anna Birt, 10, left, gives her twin sister, Anastasia, some help on a homework assignment after school Thursday at the Lawrence Public Library. The girls often spend time at the library, reading and working on homework. They participated in the library's summer reading program and read 82 books combined.

When a question pops into the inquisitive minds of 10-year-old twins Anna Birt and Anastasia Birt, they know where to find the answer: the library.

Like young detectives, they peruse the shelves of books with their mother, Carol Birt.

The girls recently wanted to find out about future winter Olympic sites. After discovering Sochi, Russia, was scheduled to host the 2014 Olympics, they were intrigued and wanted to know more. The library provided resources on the country and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

“Books take you different places in the world,” Anna said. “You don’t have to pay any money to go to Asia. You can just read about it and it’s just great because you see a lot of cool pictures and stuff.”

This summer’s reading program “Get a Clue @ Your Library” was a perfect fit for the twins. The program, which ended Aug. 31, was designed to prompt parents to read with their children. Those who read 16 books received a free book of their choice from The Friends of the Lawrence Public Library and coupons for local businesses.

Anna and Anastasia were among 2,274 youths who read at least 16 books as part of the program. Anastasia read 46 books, about 20 more books than the summer before. She was one of 778 young readers who earned extra credit by reading at least 26 books.

Linda Clay, children’s library assistant, said there was a decline in participation this year compared with last year when 2,400 children participated.

However, adult participation increased. Maria Butler, community relations coordinator, said 258 adults finished the program, which required them to read four fiction or nonfiction books about mysteries.

“Kids are encouraged to read when they also see their parents reading so it’s good in that respect,” she said. “But it’s also fun and because there’s a theme to it, it encourages people to read outside their comfort zone.”