The Bermuda National Library’s summer reading programme set a new record this year with more than 900 books read by Bermudian children since the programme started on July 1.More than 375 children and about 100 adults registered for the programme, which was supported by the Buechner Society of Bermuda.In the programme, entitled ‘Have Book, Will Travel,’ each child received a passport to complete. They earned stamps for it by reading books and attending events at the Youth Library.Adults had to read seven books in different genres to complete seven boarding passes.In total, the children and adults read more than 1,500 books over the course of the summer.By the end of the programme, 47 children had completed their passports and 40 adults had finished their boarding passes and were entered to win prizes.Head Librarian Joanne Brangman called the programme an “overwhelming success”.“With the support of the Buechner Society of Bermuda we were able to support Bermudian children as they read over 900 books this summer — a new record for the programme,” she said.David Altshuler of the Buechner Society of Bermuda thanked Joanne Brangman for leading the programme, adding: “We are thrilled that this year’s summer reading programme not only helped with child literacy but also helped to further establish the National Library as Bermuda’s home for reading and learning.”“Literacy is a core programme for the Society as Frederick Buechner, a former Paget resident and celebrated theologian and author of 36 books, has a particular interest in supporting reading and learning in Bermuda,” he added.Quaezjon Bean was the grand prize winner among the children, receiving an airline ticket to any JetBlue destination and a $250 travel voucher supplied by the Buechner Society.Starr Bowen and Lexiana Tucci were also winners in the children’s programme.Tamberle Bean and Nkenge-Warren Swan were the two top adult winners. Sara, Tommy and Jonathan Westhead took home the family prize, for which at least one child and one parent had to participate in the programme.Youth Services Librarian Marla Smith thanked the programme’s sponsors and the many people involved in its success.“Bermuda’s children are better for it!” she said.