With summer break just around the corner, many families are looking for ways to keep their children reading and avoid the summer slide. While there are a number of paid tutoring options and camps, you just can’t beat free summer reading programs from your local library.

What is a Library Summer Reading Program?

Library summer reading programs typically seek to incentivize children for reading. At the beginning of the program, children are given a reading log where they are encouraged to track reading (either by recording minutes read or book titles). Once certain goals are reached (for example, 100 minutes read), children can return to the library to earn a prize (stickers, pencils, an entry for a raffle, etc.).

Most of our library partners offer summer reading programs for elementary-aged children and many offer programs for teens and adults too so that you can get the whole family reading!

What if My Child is a Struggling Reader?

Signing up for a summer reading program can be daunting if your child struggles with reading. However, most librarians will agree that summer reading is all about getting your child into books – not whether they can become an avid reader in just three months. If you are in doubt about the targets, talk to your children’s librarian and see if there are ways you can modify the targets for your child. For example, our librarian helped us find high-interest, low readability (hi-lo) titles that my daughter would enjoy. She also suggested that we take turns reading every other page to avoid fatigue. Just remember – your librarian wants your child to be successful and he or she is there to help!

Where Can I Find a Program?

Libraries throughout Northeast Ohio are offering summer reading programs. You can sign up for one or more (depending on what motivates your child). The following libraries are also Connecting for Kids partners (who offer adapted storytimes). We encourage you to check them out!

Avon Lake Public Library (website)
Libraries Rock! Summer Reading Program (kicks off June 1)

Akron-Summit County Public Library (website)
Mind Body & Sole Summer Reading Program (kicks off June 4)

Cuyahoga County Public Library (website)
Libraries Rock! Summer Reading Program (kicks off June 2)

Elyria Public Library System (website)
Libraries Rock! Summer Reading Program (kicks off June 2)

Lakewood Public Library (website)
Libraries Rock! Summer Reading Program (see page 46) (kicks off May 14)

Rocky River Public Library (website)
Libraries Rock! Summer Reading Program (kicks off June 11)

Westlake Porter Public Library (website)
Libraries Rock! Summer Reading Program (kicks off May 31)

Even More Opportunities!

If your child really loves books, Barnes & Noble Bookseller also offers a summer reading program where children can earn a free book. Details can be found on their website.