For kids who enjoy drifting into storyland, a few community libraries also offer readers a few physical activities to keep both mind and body energized during summer reading programs.

This vacation season, the children's department at Bethel Park Public Library and AMF Mt. Lebanon Lanes have joined hands to promote literacy and some healthy competition for kids through Book 'n Bowl.

A free bowling pass and shoe rental are provided this summer to students in grades one through five who are registered in the Book 'n Bowl program. At the Bethel Park Library they must commit to a goal of reading a total of 20 hours by Aug. 5. Preschoolers and kindergarteners in the read-to-me group must listen to 100 books.

Bethel Park youth who have filled the requirements for this summer's Book 'n Bowl program are invited to a bowling party set to begin at 11 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 6. In just the past few weeks, 36 Bethel youth have met the required goal.

At age 5, Allison Scarlett loves to read books about the weather, especially tornados. Allison also considers bowling a fun pastime.

"Working with Lyn Feild at AMF Mt. Lebanon Lanes is a great way to draw girls as well as boys into summer reading," said Elaine Volpe, head of youth services at Bethel Park Public Library. "Competition and having to reach a goal offering a sports-related reward is a great incentive for most kids."

In 2008, more than 400 Mt. Lebanon Public Library readers participated in Book 'n Bowl. This summer Mt. Lebanon Lanes expects more than 800 Bethel Park and Mt. Lebanon library readers to enjoy the bowling reward. Young readers at the Mt. Lebanon Library will gather for their bowling party at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 11.

"Bowling is a lifelong sport," added Lyn Field, sales manager, AMF Mt. Lebanon Lanes. "Our youth programs are designed to instruct, demonstrate and develop a competitive athlete. Youth scholarships, traveling league and intramural competitions are just waiting for new young bowlers."