HAMMOND -- WPBS-DT has scheduled a stop at the Hammond Free Library, 17 N. Main St., at 1 p.m., Thursday, July 27, as part of its 2017 Summer Library Tours.

WPBS-DT is partnering with several libraries in the Tri-County Region and Canada during the week of July 24-28 to encourage children to continue to read throughout the summer months.

Each stop on the tour features free books (one per family), photo opportunity and story time with special guest, Curious George from the popular PBS Kids series.

The 2017 Summer Library Tour schedule is available at wpbstv.org/librarytours.

WPBS-DT’s commitment to education and early literacy skills development is a critical part of its overall mission, said station press release.

WPBS-DT, in collaboration with local libraries, is attempting to avoid the “summer slide,” the tendency to lose some of the achievement gains made during the previous school year.

The purpose of the annual Ready Set Read Library Tours is to introduce children to an enjoyable way to experience story time and introduce parents to the numerous, well-established resources available at local libraries.

For more information about this and other WPBS Children’s events, contact Heather O’Hara, outreach manager, at hohara@wpbstv.org or 315-782-3142 ext. 320.

Summer Library Tours are sponsored by Martin’s Point Health Care, Stewart’s Shops, and Walmart.