The Cobb County Public Libraries are taking part in the fourth annual Atlanta Hawks/Atlanta Thrashers ‘Check-It-Out Reading Challenge,’ running now through Aug. 15 for students in grades K-12. Designed to encourage youth to read throughout the summer months, this year’s Reading Challenge marks the first time the program has been offered state-wide.

By reading at least five books, participants can earn a free ticket to an Atlanta Hawks game and a free ticket for an Atlanta Thrashers game. Tickets are valid for 2008-2009 regular season home games.

After reading their selected books, participants can then visit www.checkitoutreading.com to receive their rewards. Each student completing the program will be able to choose from among three Hawks games and three Thrashers games to use the free tickets. Additional tickets for families of the participants can be purchased at discounted prices. The last day to register for the Reading Challenge is Aug. 15.

Complimentary Reading Challenge bookmarks are also available at any of the CCPL for youth registering in the event.

For more information on the Reading Challenge and its regulations, log on to www.checkitoutreading.com or visit one of the 17 CCPL in your area.

The Reading Challenge is sponsored by GPLS and Atlanta Spirit. The Atlanta Spirit organization operates both of the Atlanta Hawk and Atlanta Thrashers teams as well as the Philips Arena. The CCPL is a non-profit organization whose mission it is to promote interest in reading and to support research, knowledge and cultural enrichment for all people.