Mary Poppins said, “In every job that must be done, there is an element of fun. You find the fun and the job’s a game.”

Children, eleven years old and under, are invited to participate in the Summer Reading Program. This year’s theme is inspired by the enchanting Mary Poppins, stories by P.L. Travers, about a British nanny helping children to see the magic in life. Beyond the Disney film, there were several other Mary Poppins books. The adventure continued for 50 years.

Mary Poppins (1934); Mary Poppins Opens the Door (1943); Mary Poppins in the Park (1952); Mary Poppins From A to Z (1962); Mary Poppins In the Kitchen: A Cookery Book with a Story (1975); Mary Poppins In Cherry Tree Lane (1982); and Mary Poppins and the House Next Door (1988).

Patten Free’s adventure runs from June 20 through August 8. To participate, pick up a Book Log and record the books children have read or been read to. Children can pick out reading prizes from Mary Poppins’ magic carpetbag.

Studies have proven that summer reading boosts children’s achievement, combating learning loss. Engage their minds and imaginations by visiting the Patten Free Library often. Developing a love of reading and the habit of reading independently for pleasure is one of the greatest gifts you can possibly give your child.

Here are the activities that will take place in June:

— The Children’s Book Parade, Fri, June 20, 2-3 p.m., all ages.

The summer program begins at the Library Park Gazebo. Dress up as your favorite Mary Poppins character; we’ll march around the Gazebo; then, listen to a children’s Concert with Rob Duquette, one of Maine’s favorite musicians. (Ice Cream Social to follow)

— In the Park with Mary Poppins, Wed, June 25, 2-3 p.m., all ages at the Library Park Gazebo. Waterville’s PonyXpress will bring their two ponies for rides in the Library Park, and maybe you’ll see a hedgehog, armadillo, tortoise, an alpaca, goaties and a mini donkey. (raindate, June 26, same time) (Ice Cream Social to follow) —Let’s Go Fly a Kite, Fri, June 27, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m., all ages, in the Community Room, limited to 24 children, sign up required. Decorate an 8 1/2″ foam kite for home, not for sky.