(JKPL) — Joeten-Kiyu Public Library proudly announces the successful completion of the first phase of its 2025 “Color Our World” Summer Reading Program, held from June 17 to June 27, 2025. The program welcomed over 90 children during our ages 6–12 program, who engaged in enriching activities designed to spark creativity, promote literacy, and encourage community connection.
Children explored various forms of creative expression utilizing chalk, paint, markers, crayons, food coloring, 3D sensory textures, and hands-on STEM projects. These activities not only promoted academic retention during summer months but also fostered exploration through art and science.
In addition to indoor programming, students participated in educational field trips, including a memorable visit to the local fire station in Susupe, where they learned about emergency medical services, explored fire engines and ambulances, and interacted with firefighters and first responders.
Another highlight was the visit to Guma Sakman, where children experienced Chamorro cultural heritage and learned about the traditional Proa sailboat, guided by the passionate team from 500 Sails.
Throughout the program, children were inspired by engaging presentations from guest partners including:
• Friends of the Mariana Trench
• 500 Sails
• CNMI Historic Preservation Office
• CNMI Department of Public Safety Canine Unit
• DLNR Brown Tree Snake Program
• DLNR Sea Turtle Conservation Program
The program’s reach extended beyond ages 6–12. In the 0–5 age category, 40 families registered for our specially designed “Summer Learning Package-To-Go,” encouraging parents and guardians to bond with their toddlers through fun and educational activities. As of today, 10 completed packets have been returned, and the young participants were celebrated with gift bags containing puzzles, activity sheets, and mini plushies.
On the thrilling final day of the program, students were treated to an unforgettable experience — a special reading of “Hafa Un A’atan,” the beautifully crafted book written by Dolores Ichihara Marciano and vividly illustrated by Rodante Guarda. Adding to the magic of the moment, the story was brought to life by Rebecca “Becky” P. Cruz and children’s librarian Celina Foreman, who delivered the reading on behalf of First Lady Wella Palacios. The room buzzed with excitement as voices and illustrations danced together, creating a heartfelt celebration of culture, storytelling, and community. Shortly after the children were honored during a completion ceremony, where they proudly received their Certificates of Completion and goodie bags filled with fun and educational items. These gifts were thoughtfully distributed by several of our generous sponsors and community partners, adding a special touch to the celebration. Following the ceremony, children dove into carnival-style games and activities, topped off by a surprise visit from fan-favorite characters Bluey and Bingo.
The energy was high, the smiles were wide, and friendships blossomed among the young participants.
What families are saying
“We enjoyed all the learning materials provided during this summer reading program. We hope this program will be offered again next year. Thank you!” – Everleigh & Erzaleah Such
“I love the program because I learned how to spell some new words in a fun way. I never want this program to end.” – Maegan Sablan
“This library actually allows me to express myself. I can’t describe it – this is the best summer program ever.” – Anonymous participant
“We loved everything! We love our library’s summer reading program! So much fun! Great staff! Very friendly and respectful. The program is very supportive for children with disabilities.” – Alexandra Birnbrich
Looking ahead
Missed out on the fun? Don’t worry – more opportunities are on the way:
• JKPL Internet Camp
o Session A: July 8–10
o Session B: July 15–17
o Time: 9:30 a.m. – 12 noon
o Registration required
• Bookmobile Summer Outreach Reading Program
o Location: Garapan Mihaville
o Dates: July 9–11
o Time: 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
o Registration required
• Fernando M. Benavente Memorial Library (San Antonio Branch Library) Summer Reading Program
o Dates: July 16 – August 1
o Time: 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
o Registration required
• Teen Service Program
o Dates: July 22 – August 1
o Time: 1:30 p.m. – 4 p.m.
o Registration required
Sponsors and partners
This program was made possible through the generous support of our Platinum Donors: Joeten Family, MS Villagomez/Kiyu Family, Office of the Governor Arnold I. Palacios, USDA, Institute of Museum and Library Services, Northern Marianas Library Association, Pacific Advisory Services, Veteran’s Vending Solutions, Friends of the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library, Lollipops, Bridge Capital LLC, and affiliated groups including Anaks Holding, Seven Leaves, FT Condo, Square and Compass, MP Investments, Coconut Capital, Westview Property, Mountain View Holdings, PROA, Latte Investments, Achugao Services, Excelsior Marianas, Mariana Holdings, and Fox Financial.
Gold Donors: First Lady Wella Palacios, Speaker Edmund S. Villagomez, Rep. Vincent Diego F. Camacho, Rep. Vincent S. Aldan, D&Q International, Coca-Cola Beverage Micronesia, Leslie Bradley & Family, Bank Pacific Ltd., Chong’s Corporation.
Silver Donor: Elizabeth D. Rechebei
Bronze Donors: Marianas Pacific Distributors Inc., J’s Restaurant, Blossoms Floral Depot, Patricia Aguon-Cruz, Commonwealth Library Council, McDonald’s of Saipan. Community Partners: Saipan Mayor’s Office, CNMI Public School System Child Nutrition Program, Department of Lands and Natural Resources: Parks and Recreation, Sea Turtle Conservation Program, Brown Tree Snake Program, Northern Marianas Athletics, Run Saipan, Northern Marianas Housing Corporation, Dept. Of Public Safety, Dept. Of Public Safety Canine Unit, Dept. of Fire and Emergency Medical Services, 500 Sails, CNMI Historic Preservation Office, Friends of the Mariana Trench, and many more.
A shared success
“This program is a success because of your dedication to literacy, youth development, and community collaboration,” said Library Director Erlinda C. Naputi. “Our heartfelt thanks go out to all families, donors, sponsors, volunteers, and partners. Your support helped create a vibrant, joyful, and educational summer for every child involved.”
We look forward to welcoming more young readers and families to upcoming programs. Until then — keep reading!
Joeten-Kiyu Public Library works hard at developing innovative and enriching programs for our community. Please enjoy your public library’s free resources by visiting www.cnmilib.org and its social media platforms: like/follow JKPL’s Facebook page @joetenkiyupubliclibrary, Instagram @joetenkiyupubliclibrary, TikTok @jkpl670, X (Twitter) @JoetenKiyu, and You Tube: joeten kiyu public library.
JKPL’s temporary summer hours of operation are as follows:
Open Tuesday to Thursday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday 1:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Closed: Sundays, Mondays, and Holidays.
How you can help
JKPL welcomes and encourages businesses to consider making Educational Tax Credit donations. Please make checks payable to: CNMI Treasury. For MUNIS payments, to the Friends of the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library MUNIS Vendor ID#100404.
