Library director Stephanie Weber said turnout this summer has been wonderful. “We’ve been averaging 50 to 125 people each week,” she said.

Participants receive a snack and sometimes a free book and goody bag. All ages are welcome.

“They all been very well attended. It’s a nice service to be able to offer for families and it’s free,” Weber said.

This week they welcomed magician Scott Obermann, who performs as “Great Scott.”

Scott Obermann, who performs as Great Scott, introduces his friend Webster the Frog to those who attended his magic show Tuesday in Florence, Wis. The performance was part the Florence County Library’s "Color Our World" reading program. (Marguerite Lanthier/Daily News photo)

Obermann said he developed his love of magic when he received his first magic kit at age 12. His show was filled with tricks, rapid-fire jokes, funny songs and some ventriloquism.

He describes his shows as “a lot of fun and enjoyment — with a reading message.”

During the show, he had several volunteers who helped him perform magic tricks and at the end introduced the audience to Webster the Frog. He also discussed several books about magic.

And, of course, he told the audience the magic words — “I love reading.”

The Milwaukee-area entertainer has performed full-time for the past 21 years. He also does shows for adults, businesses and private events.

Weber said the library will sponsor another magic show at 10 a.m. Tuesday at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College in Aurora, Wis., for the children taking part in the Food, Fun and Fitness program.

Performing Tuesday is Wisconsin-based Jeff McMullen, a multifaceted entertainer with an emphasis on physical comedy. In his 30 years as an entertainer he has done more than 5,000 shows around the world.

In addition to physical comedy, attendees can expect magic, juggling, plate spinning and many laughs.

On July 22, the series returns to Florence with The Wacky World of Wesley Waffles, a music and dance show featuring all original music.

The show, presented by Christian Strutz of Wisconsin-based Strutz Entertainment, also has puppetry, a little magic and lots of dancing.

During the final week, on July 29, J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue from Wisconsin will give an interactive presentation featuring live animals and lessons on pet ownership, wildlife conservation and animal adoptions.

The shows in Florence take place in the school cafeteria down the hall from the library.

A few weeks after the last show, Weber said she begins planning for the next year. She works with the Dickinson County Library and the Suring Area Public Library to coordinate the schedule so they can get the best prices and bring these types of shows to Florence.

The Florence County Board provided some additional funds this year, so the library was able to have an extra show. They also had financial support from the Friends of the Library.

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Marguerite Lanthier can be reached at 906-774-3500, ext. 85242, or mlanthier@ironmountaindailynews.com.