SUMMER READING PROGRAMS 2026
Welcome to the 2026 Summer Reading Programs for all ages! The theme for all the programs is Plant A Seed - Read. The theme is rooted in the concept of farm-to-table: A farm grows food that nourishes our bodies while a library grows ideas that nourish our minds and both food and stories connect us to our family, culture, economy, and ecology. Below is information on all four programs.
Adult Summer Library Program
- For everyone 18 and older
- Program runs June 1-August 31
- Registration begins on June 1 and adults are welcome to join throughout the summer
- Participants will receive a book bag, bookmark, and a free book just for registering
- Participants will track books read or listened to, library services used, programs attended, and activities completed to earn prizes. The flyer/log can be downloaded or picked up at the library.
- For each four items completed, participants will be able to select an item from the prize box or another book
- For those that want a challenge, there is a Book Genre Bingo challenge as well. The Bingo sheet can be downloaded or picked up at the library. Complete two Bingos and receive one extra entry into the grand prize drawing!
- Participants who complete at least sixteen activities, which must include reading at least four books, will have completed the program and will be eligible for the grand prize drawings
- Grand Prize drawings will include a Book Lover’s Basket, an Arts and Crafts basket, a Library Swag Basket, and more.
- Special programs will also be scheduled
- The adult summer library program is sponsored by the Friends of the James Kennedy Public Library
Teen Summer Reading Program
- For anyone who has completed 5th-12th grade. New this year, those that have completed 5th grade can choose whether to participate in the Children's program or the Teen program.
- Program runs from June 2 to August 1. Registration begins June 2
- Participants will receive a free book just for registering
- Participants will fill out short reviews for each book they read to earn an entry to win prizes at the end of the summer. Download the review sheets or pick up at the library. Participants can also earn additional chances to win by attending programs. The grand prize this year is a Samsung Galaxy Tablet!
- Sponsored by TACKL.
- Download the information flyer or pick up a copy at the library.
Children’s Summer Reading Program
- For children ages 4-11 years old (who have completed 5th grade). New this year, those that have completed 5th grade can choose whether to participate in the Children's program or the Teen program.
- Program begins June 2 and ends August 1. Registration begins June 2.
- Children will receive a reading log and can pick out a free book! Download the log or pick one up at the library.
- Children will read (or be read to) as much as they wish. Record in the reading log every 20 minutes of reading as one point.
- At the end of the summer reading program, children can use their points to “buy” toys and books at the Summer Reading Completion Party on August 1
- The Children’s Summer Reading Program is sponsored by the Friends of the JKPL.
- Download the events list (bookmark form) or pick up a copy at the library.
Toddler Summer Literacy Program
- For children ages 0-3
- Program runs June 2-August 1. Registration begins June 2.
- Participants will use a simple board game to complete activities that promote literacy and a lifelong love of reading. Download the game board or pick up a copy at the library.
- Upon completion of the board game, toddlers will receive a board book and a small toy of their choice
- Families can choose to participate in the Children’s Summer Reading Program if they prefer.