The sun is out, school is almost over, and we are thrilled to announce that our 2026 Summer Reading Program is ready to roar. This summer, your library is going back – way back – to the Mesozoic Era! Readers of all ages are invited to dig into a good book with this year’s theme, “Unearth a Story.”
Don’t Let Your Skills Go Extinct
As the temperatures climb, trade the midday sun for the cool aisles of your local library. Summer reading is more than just a boredom buster. It’s a vital tradition that keeps minds sharp and spirits high. The “summer slide” is a real threat to students’ progress but reading just 20 minutes a day can keep those brain muscles moving. Ensuring students return to school in the fall with their literacy skills intact.
But it’s not just for kids. For adults, participating in a reading challenge brings a sense of intentionality to your leisure time, helping you build better habits away from digital distractions.
Dig Into Our Summer Program
Modern summer reading has evolved into a full-scale adventure! Programs go beyond just tracking reading for incentives. From dino-inspired stories to T-Rex-sized reading goals, here’s how we’re making this summer “dino-mite.”
- Kick-Off Party: May 22, 1-4pm. Dino sized party with games, activities, food vendors, and community partners. Plus, Summer Reading sign-ups!
- Incentives & Prizes: Of course there are prizes! From books to local treat coupons and toys to school supplies. And a treasure box to explore!
- More Than Books: Discover STEAM Kits, Playaway’s, Literacy Kits, Games, Movies, and More!
- Events & Activities: Our summer calendar is full of fun for all ages. Raptors, Science, Trivia, Zumba, Magic, Music, and Puppets!
- Side Quests: Earn extra prizes for completing fun literacy-based activities. Side Quests are found on your reading log.
- Stomp Into Storytime: Join us every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday (June & July) for prehistoric tales, complete with dinosaur songs, crafts, and activities.
- Dinosaur Rodeo Finale: Final Summer Reading event on July 29, 2-4pm. Dino themed rodeo-style events!
Tips from the Librarians
To get the most out of your library visits this summer, consider these pro tips:
- Make it a Routine: Designate a specific time each day for reading or set a weekly “library day” to refresh your stack.
- Model the Behavior: When children see their parents enjoying a book, they are far more likely to become readers themselves.
- Take it on the Road: Books are the ultimate portable entertainment. Don’t forget to pack a few for your next road trip. Playaway’s are awesome too!
- Don’t Forget Digital: If you’re traveling light, check out your library’s digital collection for e-books and audiobooks you can access anywhere.
Whether you’re a toddler discovering your first T-Rex or an adult “unearthing” a gripping historical mystery, there is something for everyone at the library this summer.
