FORSYTH - In terms of participation numbers, summer reading is the biggest thing they do at the Forsyth Public Library.

Jean Campbell, head librarian, said that is backed up by looking at last year's registration numbers, up 17 percent from the previous year.

"I think it's because we have interested young families looking for things to do and have fun in the summer," she said.

Forsyth is among libraries in Central Illinois which plan activities to keep readers of all ages involved throughout summer. Most of them soon will kick off summer reading programs following the theme of "Get in the Game, READ!" a suggestion of the Illinois Library Association.

"It's a good theme," Campbell said. "It lends itself to so many opportunities for programs."

A sampling from area library programs confirms what Campbell said. There's Richard Landry's appearance in both Blue Mound and Macon libraries, the Madcap Puppets Production in the Decatur Public Library and Don Miller from Family Time Entertainment in Indianapolis, Ind., presenting "The President's Show" in Forsyth.

Landry, who hails from Chatham, said he strongly emphasizes reading in his magic presentations. One of the things he'll do, he said, is have a rabbit puppet in a hat with the puppet's favorite book, which in turns pulls the real rabbit out of the hat.

Along with Snowball, the real rabbit, Landry said he reinforces all of his magic with the fact that books are what make much of the magic possible.

"There's lots of comedy, lots of audience participation," he added.

And there will be a free how-to magic sheet which is only available to children who check out books after his show.

The Madcap Puppets, said Katie Gross, children's librarian in Decatur, are returning for a mid-summer show, courtesy of a grant from Target.

"They are very popular," she said. "They appeal to very young children, even adults as well.

"They are big, big puppets," she added, larger than life size.

Miller isn't new to Forsyth library shows, Campbell said. His previous water show was a big hit with children, especially after he sprayed them with a garden hose on a hot summer day. This year, the costumed Miller will present information about many of the early U.S. presidents. His shows, she added, are fun but educational.

In addition, the library plans to kick of the summer events with the Maroa-Forsyth High School 2008 football team and their coach, Josh Jostes, along with the school's cheerleaders. Billed as a "football lollapalooza," the activities June 3 also will include learning about football equipment and participating in conditioning drills along with giving a few cheers for football and for reading.

Arlene Mannlein can be reached at amannlein@herald-review.com or 421-6976.