Shoeboxes float at the library

WANTAGE — It is refreshing to see the creativity and exuberance of children and that was evident at the summer reading activity called Shoebox Floats.
The activity was held at several library branches including the Aug. 2 Floats held at the Sussex- Wantage Library branch.
Presenting the program was Jenise Sileo of the Sussex County Library System. Sileo talked and elaborated on each of the 12 shoebox floats, commenting on their construction, creativity and fun factor.
“They are amazing,” she said. “I’m so glad I’m not voting on them.”
Children who registered for the program were required to construct a diorama, using a shoebox of their favorite book or the theme of summer reading 2017, Building a Better World. Twelve floats and 12 participants created some fabulous projects, displaying scenes of Star Wars, Shopkins, a fantastic bird’s nest and Dr. Seuss’ the Lorax. Some floats depicted the child’s favorite book like Good Night, Moon, Extra Yarn, Old McDonald, The Hungry Caterpillar and the Case of the Stolen Baseball Cards.
The shoebox activity was specified as a family event, with children and parents working together. Many parents attended the Wednesday afternoon program and seemed just as enthusiastic as their children. Children voted on first, second and third place winners, however, every child received a prize.
To keep with the float theme, all youngsters enjoyed root beer floats at the program’s conclusion.