Summer Reading Program

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Why is Summer Reading impo​​rtant?

Programming, materials, and activities for elementary-age​d children should be a core part of every library’s​​ offerings year-round. Traditionally, summer reading programs are designed to encourage elementary-aged children to keep reading during summer vacation. Preventing the “summer slide” continues to be the main objective of summer reading programs. For many families with elementary-aged children, the public library is the only community space available during the summer months where they can access free educational and cultural enrichment activities and programs.

KY Saves 529 Summer Reading Campaign
The Kentucky Department for Libraries and Archives (KDLA), the Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority (KHEAA), and KY Saves 529 are pleased to announce that participation in this year's summer reading program could pay off for five Kentucky children. Through the KY Saves 529 Summer Reading Campaign, one summer reading participant from each KDLA region will win $529 toward a college savings account. In addition, each winner's local public library will receive $500 to support youth reading programs.

The campaign runs May 10–August 15, 2026, and is open to summer reading participants ages 18 and younger. Visit kysaves.com/unearth to view the official contest rules and learn more about helping Kentucky students become financially prepared for tuition and other expenses related to college, trade or vocational school, or apprenticeship programs.

Visit KY Saves 529 Summer Reading Campaign for more information and ways to help promote this Campaign at your public library.​​

​​​​​ ​ ​ ​ ​The benefits of summer reading progr​a​mming for children​​
​ Children are motivated to ​read.​​	​ Children d​evelop positive attitudes about reading, books, and the library.	​​ Children maintain their reading skills during summer vacation.	​ Children have access to experiences that further their sense of discovery.	​ Children have access to experiences through ​which they can learn to work cooperatively.
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Summer reading initiatives have long been pivotal in ensuring that children and teens stay immersed in literature and continuous learning, even during the leisurely summer months. For a vast majority, the local library isn’t just a repository of books; it's a unique community sanctuary offering complimentary, enriching educational and cultural experiences. Here, children and teens can dive deep into tales, broaden their worldviews, experience wonder, and share joyful moments — making the library a cherished venue for familial bonding. By tracking the hours your child devotes to reading or the myriad of books they've ventured through during summer, you'll find that participants of the library’s summer reading program remain intellectually stimulated. Come fall, these young scholars reenter school not merely ready to absorb new knowledge but primed for academic triumph.​​