Read a book, get a reward. That simple formula brings kids back to Hawai'i libraries summer after summer.

This year, some public libraries are giving adults incentives to visit, too.

At some libraries, that means reading a book might translate into a free DVD rental. (And if you don't know that libraries rent DVDs, then the adult reading program might be a way to discover libraries aren't just about books anymore.)

Books are the key to three reading programs offered this summer, starting today for children, young adults and grownups.

For kids and those who are over 18, the big prizes are gift cards. Students grades 7 and up have a bigger incentive: Pearlridge Center shopping sprees for $1,000, $500 or $250 are on the table.

"It's most important to keep (youth) coming in after the sixth grade when their parents don't bring them anymore," said Edna Weeks, a librarian in the young adult section at the Hawai'i State Library. "They have other distractions, like the mall and their activities, so we're really trying to let the library be a destination point."

The adult program has a similar mission, and 17 libraries are trying to figure out how to make it work.

"This is all in the spirit and the sheer enjoyment of reading and lifelong learning," said Lynne Kobayashi, section head of the state library's Language, Literature and History Section.

SHARING, LEARNING

Librarians hope that people will share what they've read, interact with librarians and learn about new books they might like.

"We're trying to get people more excited about coming into the library," Kobayashi said.

The reading programs are low-key. There's no book list and no reading groups are involved.

The books don't even need to be borrowed from the library, although that, of course, is a goal.

While young children are encouraged to choose books that relate to the "Catch the Reading Bug" theme, for the most part, librarians are more interested that patrons choose age-appropriate reading material.

"They can read any book in their reading level," Weeks said. "We do have a summer reading list that I think parents especially look at, but they can read anything from graphic novels to classics."

And if a child who is old enough to be in the young adult program is still reading at the elementary school level, that's fine, Weeks said. "If that's the case, they get credit for it."

IT'S ABOUT THE FUN

While Kapolei Library wants adult participants to write reviews of the books they read, the programs at the state library don't require kids to do much other than get their book logged by a librarian.

Weeks said she tries to get kids to tell her about the books they read. Some reveal every detail, while others don't say much at all, she said.

She also said she doesn't expect kids to finish every book they open.

"If you get through the first 50 pages and you don't like it, close the book," she said. "I'm not going to expect you to finish a book you don't like."

The librarians recognize a week might not be enough time to finish some books, but some participants still report in, even if it's just to say they're struggling through "War and Peace."

"They don't necessarily need the prize. They want the accountability," Weeks said.

However, the main point of the summer program is not to struggle through a book, but to find books that are enjoyable to read.

"The whole thing is to read for the fun of it, and if we can brighten a day by handing someone a pencil or tape dispenser or something little and fun, so be it," Weeks said.

"We're not here to make someone tremble as they're walking up the stairs."

Programs begin today

Starting today, most Hawai'i public libraries begin five-week reading programs for children and young adults. At 17 libraries, adults will be offered a similar program. The programs are free and offer small incentives, as well as drawings for larger prizes, which vary from library to library.

The goal is for participants to read one book per week, although younger children can participate by having someone else read to them.

Call your local library or go to www.librarieshawaii.org to see which libraries are participating.