The Opp Public Library’s Summer Reading Program got off to a wild start Thursday afternoon with a number of furry and feathered friends paying a visit to the children in attendance of the program’s kickoff.

Representatives from Big Bend Wildlife Sanctuary brought birds, turtles, tortoises and other animals to discuss these animals and what children should do if they find an injured animal. Seventy children attended the first day of the program.

“It went very well,” Opp Library Director Courtney Smart said. The kids enjoyed learning about the different wildlife, and they’ve already started reading and earning points.”

Those points can be redeemed for prizes – which include gift cards, cash, toys, books and more – at the end of the program. The program officially starts July 10.

“We’re going every day, Monday through Friday, until July 14,” Smart said of the program. “Every day has a different theme, about making the world a better place, and we’ll read a story to the kids and do a craft based around the theme.”

Monday will be “Make a Difference Monday,’ Tuesday is “Top of the Tower Tuesday,’ Wednesday is “What Will You Be Wednesday,’ Thursday is “TOOLrific Thursday’ and Friday is “Fun for All Friday.”

Kindergarten through second grade children start at 10 a.m. each day and third grade and up start at 2 p.m. Each program lasts around an hour.

For more information on the program call 334-493-6423 and ask for Courtney.