By Jill Fox
After countless curbside pick-ups and virtual storytimes, the Parkland Library is ready for summer. Starting with the children’s reading club, even their featured artist in residence is getting in on the fun.
Mariana Boulton, Parkland resident and mother of four: Nico, 15, Penny, 10, Oliver, 9, and Quincy, 6, is displaying her collection of jungle animal paintings to accompany the playful theme. The “Tails and Tales” summer program takes place from June 10 to August 14 and gives young residents the opportunity to earn prizes for their summer reading.
An educator by profession, Boulton has children at Park Trails Elementary and Mary Help of Christians Catholic School, where she previously taught preschool.
Boulton said she always enjoyed losing herself in museums and art galleries, but she never imagined displaying her artwork in the community. One day, she decided to take an art class – first with oils, then acrylics, drawing, and the rest is history.
Two years ago, after receiving a kit for her birthday, Boulton was introduced to watercolors and got hooked. During Covid, she found herself having more and more time to play with the medium, explore, challenge herself and create.
“I loved getting lost in the process – it was therapeutic,” she said.
In addition, the library was a safe haven for her family during Covid.
“The staff is always so nice and helpful to my children — they really are wonderful,” she said.
Children can register for Parkland Library’s “Tails and Tales” Summer Reading Club and learn how to earn prizes.
Then on June 10, at 10 a.m., children can take a walk and read a story at the library’s outdoor StoryWalk. Each page from the selected book will be posted on a separate sign along a path outside of the library. After the conclusion, families can visit the Sawgrass Nature Center tables to meet and learn about local wildlife. Proper physical distancing and face coverings will be required.
Online registration for any of the library’s free summer events is available now. Call 954-757-4200 for more information.
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