The Cobb County Public Library System invites families and children to participate in the annual summer reading program that runs through Aug. 1. The program is a nationwide effort designed to encourage children to read and promote family reading activities.

This year’s mottos are “Be Creative @ Your Library” for children and “Express Yourself @ Your Library” for teenagers. There will be many free community activities, such as story times and crafts for children, workshops for teens and chances to win prizes and giveaways. Readers in grades 6-12 who read a book, write a review and enter a name can win an MP3 player or Barnes and Noble gift certificate.

Those who join the summer reading program will receive a free reading register to track family reading progress. Participants can attend a free end-of-summer celebration Aug. 1, from 10 a.m. to noon, at the Central Library in Marietta. To sign up, visit any Cobb library branch, where program packets and event schedules are available. For library event details, visit any of the 17 county libraries or visit cobbcounty.org/library.