The King County Library System (KCLS) is excited to announce the start of its annual Summer Reading Program, beginning on Monday, June 17. Residents of King County are invited to participate by tracking the minutes they spend reading from June 17 to August 31.
Participants are encouraged to read at least 20 minutes per day, though they are welcome to set their own reading goals. Reading materials are not restricted; participants can read anything of their choice, and both reading to someone else and listening to audiobooks count towards their reading minutes. Starting June 17, patrons can pick up a reading log at any KCLS library or track their reading online through the Beanstack app.
Prizes are available for those who sign up and reach their reading goals, featuring artwork from local artist Kate Endle. These prizes, made possible by the King County Library System Foundation, are available while supplies last.
Earn prizes for picking up a reading log at the library or for showing the Beanstack reading log to KCLS staff at the front desk. Children and teens can receive vouchers for Seattle Storm tickets, up to four per household. All ages can receive a sticker and bookmark with artwork from local artist Kate Endle.
For those who complete a reading log, children can earn a KCLS Reader badge with artwork from Kate Endle. Completing four reading logs earns all four badges, each with a different design. Teens and adults can receive gnome tote bags featuring Endle’s artwork.
In addition to tracking reading, patrons can engage in a variety of fun and educational activities throughout the summer. These include arts and crafts workshops, music and magic programs, outdoor StoryWalks, STEM learning opportunities, and various literary events.
Reading is essential for all ages. Research indicates that children and teens enhance their reading skills when they select their own books and read for pleasure. Keeping children’s minds active and engaged during the summer helps prevent learning loss while school is out. For adults, reading for pleasure offers benefits such as improved brain health, stress reduction, and opportunities for learning and personal growth.
“KCLS’ Summer Reading Program is about tearing down social barriers, expanding knowledge and creating communities of readers focused on enhancing and challenging oneself while having fun,” said KCLS Youth and Family Services Manager Hkwau’a’Que’Jol Hollins. “Our annual reading challenge gives patrons an opportunity to gain confidence in reading comprehension skills and form lasting relationships with peers and KCLS staff.”
Join the King County Library System’s Summer Reading Program to enjoy a summer of reading, learning, and community. For more information, including reading recommendations and a list of events, visit kcls.org/summer.
