Young readers bug-eyed over insect demo Published July 15, 2008 By Staff Sgt. Thomas Dow Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Children and parents alike learned about the world of insects during a bug demonstration at the Minot AFB library here July 12. The demonstration was put on by the Roosevelt Park Zoo and was part of the library's summer reading program called "Catch the Reading Bug." Sara Schoenberg, Roosevelt Park Zoo bird and reptile keeper, said it was a way to tie together reading and learning, by experiencing insects up close. "I think it helps children learn because it is a unique, close encounter with something they normally don't see," said Schoenberg. "It may even spark their interest and make them want to learn more about insects." Schoenberg said the zoo visits the base a couple of times a year for insect demonstrations. This visit included Madagascar hissing cockroaches and a rose-haired tarantula. The insects were met with a mixture of excited chatter and nervous questions by the large group of children in attendance. Wendy Simpson, MAFB library aid, said the demonstration was a great way to introduce kids to the bug-themed summer reading program. She also said the program isn't just a Minot AFB program. "Catch the Reading Bug" is the summer reading theme for libraries across the nation. According to the base library staff the program is for everyone. All people need is a picture identification card and access to the base and they can read all about the creepy, crawly world of bugs too. For more information about the summer reading program, call 723-3344.