It will be a summer of sharks and seashells, of pirates and their parrots, sandy beaches and sparkling seas, promises children’s librarian, Jean Bauer. On Wednesday, 20 three, four and five-year-old youngsters came to the kickoff of Summer Reading at the Greenville-Butler County Public Library to “catch the reading wave and make a splash.”

With such a sea-worthy theme, it came as no surprise for the children to find their reading room transformed with marine creatures everywhere, a sailboat and beach, and even “Emmie the M&M girl” in her best hula outfit.

The youngsters enjoyed a story, “Rainbow Fish,” sang fun fish songs, and got to create their own rainbow fish with colorful glitter finger paints.

The children capped off the hour with sea-inspired treats and activity booklets to take home for more nautical fun and games.

“Summer Reading: Make a Splash” continues at the BCGPL each Wednesday at 3 p.m. for 3s, 4s and 5s, and on Thursdays K-5-1st grade meet at 11 a.m. and 2nd, 3rd and 4th graders, at 3 p.m. The sessions run through July 22, with plans to wrap up the program with a visit from the McWane Center of Birmingham.

“Ruby Raindrop will be making an appearance one day this summer, too,” said “Miss” Jean. “We hope lots of boys and girls will join us each week to learn all about sea creatures and beaches and boats and much, much more through some wonderful books.”

For more information, call the GBCPL at 382-3216.