Since 1896, 500 Park Ave. has been known for their relatively large book collection, but they now have a new addition, Playstation. The Hoboken Public Library is hosting Playstation game time for children in grades 6-12 on Fridays at 2pm. RockBand and Singstar will be offered through the library. Children are also encouraged to bring their own Playstation2 compatible games.

Starting July 6th, and running throughout the summer, the library is offering a Summer Reading Program for kids from kindergarden through 5th grade. Children keep track of the hours they read, through August 26th. Prizes will be awarded for achieving 1, 5, 10, 15, and 20 hours. Readers compete to be the “Super Splash” reader, the child who has the most hours. The winner will receive four tickets to the Hoboken Clearview Cinemas, while the two runners-up get two tickets each.

Everyone who reads and records his or her hours will be invited to the Super Splash Reading Celebration on August 27th. For more information, stop by the Children’s Department to grab a Summer Reading brochure.

Sofie and Sheffield are making their appearance again this summer! The library’s reading dogs will be at the library on July 21st at 3pm, and August 18th at 3pm. They will also be making other appearances throughout the summer. Reading dog minutes will count toward Summer Reading totals.

Throughout the summer, you can enjoy Stories in the Park! The Gazebo in Church Square Park will house the Stories in the Park at 10:30am. Infants to 30 months are welcomed on Tuesdays, and 31 months to 5 years are welcomed on Wednesdays. In case of extreme rain or heat, the story time will be moved into the library.

Other upcoming events for kids include Cupcake Crafts, on July 14th at 2pm, and a Singalong with Orlando’s favorite kids’ entertainer, Mr. Richard, on July 22nd at 2pm.

The library has three distinct floors: The first houses the book collection, as well as the music and video/DVD collection. The beautiful and spacious reading room encompasses the second floor. The third floor holds an extensive collection of children books.

Additionally, the library offers a variety of career workshops and programs for children, teens, and seniors. Computer labs with free WiFi are also available to the public.

The library hours are as followed: Monday, 10am – 8pm; Tuesday – Thursday, 9am – 8pm; Friday, 9am – 5pm; Saturday, 10am – 5pm; Sunday, 11am – 2pm.