Media will have an opportunity to cover the launch of "Read Your Way to the Ballpark" summer reading program. Arizona Diamondbacks organist Bobby Freeman and mascot D. Baxter will perform their "Bobby and Baxter" show. "Extra! Extra! Read Your Way to the Ballpark" is a free summer reading program sponsored by the Arizona Diamondbacks and The Arizona Republic. The program runs from May 29 through July 28 at 11 library systems in Maricopa County. Participants can earn prizes by reading or listening to one book for 20 minutes or reading 50 pages. Every seven spaces traveled on the game board wins a prize. Readers who reach the finish line receive a ticket to a Diamondbacks game and a chance to attend The Arizona Republic baseball clinic. Last year, more than 77,000 children registered in the county.

D-Backs mascot "D. Baxter"

City Librarian Toni Garvey

Phoenix Public Library officials

Elementary school students

Thursday, May 24

1221 N. Central Ave., Phoenix