Summer is a great time for kids to kick back and relax, but don’t let the days go by without a little reading. It’s the perfect time to read just for fun and spending time every day with a good book will keep kids learning and their brains sharp.
To celebrate summer, these local public libraries have summer reading programs for kids. Plus, we found an online option if you prefer that.
MONTEREY COUNTY FREE LIBRARIES (MCFL)
The MCFL program runs June 14 through July 29. Patrons of all ages can register in-person at their local MCFL branch or online at eMCFL.org. Participant receive free books and prizes. Exciting, family-friendly programs will be hosted in June and July and include free live performances, free books, and fun for all ages. Programs require registration.
- Branches throughout Monterey County
- www.co.monterey.ca.us/government/departments-i-z/library/kids-teen/kids
- (831) 883-7555
MONTEREY PUBLIC LIBRARY SUMMER READING PROGRAM
“Find Your Voice” is the theme for this summer’s program running from June 3 to July 29. The program will be a celebration of the many ways that reading can expand your child’s voice through kindness, growth, and community. Children will be encouraged to get creative, try new things, explore art, and find beauty in diversity. Special performances and activities are planned. All ages, even adults, can earn prizes for participating.
- 625 Pacific Street, Monterey, 93940
- monterey.org/library
- (831) 646-3933
PACIFIC GROVE PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Summer Reading Program begins June 7. The program includes weekly entertainment on Wednesdays at 2:00 pm at Jewell Park in Pacific Grove.
- 550 Central Ave, Pacific Grove, 93950
- www.pacificgrovelibrary.org
- (831) 648-5760
SALINAS PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Summer Learning Program begins June 5th and continues thru July 29th. A variety of drop-in and registration-based programs for all ages will be offered throughout the summer to promote learning and exploration. The program will offer an array of engaging activities and reading prizes for children, teens, and adults and include a Summer Reading Challenge, prizes, in-person programs, live performances and take-home kits.
- 350 Lincoln Ave., Salinas, 93901
- www.SalinasPublicLibrary.org
- (831) 758-7311
SANTA CRUZ PUBLIC LIBRARY
The theme at the Santa Cruz Public Libraries this summer is: Find Your Voice! We use our voices to share stories, express ourselves, and spark change. Our voices include not only the sounds we make, but the words we write, the movements we perform, and the actions we take each day to impact our world. This June and July children are encouraged to find their voice, to read for fun, to learn a new skill. Library programs and events are free and focused on maintaining and improving reading skills, exploring, and building our community. The more you read the more you earn. Kids and teens can earn gift certificates to Atlantis Fantasy World and Boardwalk Bowl, scoops of ice cream from The Penny Ice Creamery, and raffle tickets for the grand prize of a new bike. Special events and programs for families include Bubble Magic, the Circus of Smiles, Python Ron’s Reptile Kingdom, and more.
- 224 Church Street, Santa Cruz, 95060
- santacruzpl.org/srp
- (831) 427-7713
WATSONVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY
The annual Summer Reading Program will run from
June 5 - July 31. All ages are invited to participate and everyone who registers gets a free book. You can register and track books online or in a paper log available at the library. A variety of themed events are planned including crafts, a movie night, and more.
- 275 Main St., Suite 100. Watsonville, 95076
- www.cityofwatsonville.org/202/Library
- (831) 768-3400
SCHOLASTIC SUMMER READING PROGRAM
The Scholastic Summer Reading program offers kids an exciting, free, and safe summer reading experience, while helping to provide books to kids with limited access over the summer. Through September 3, kids can visit the summer zone in Scholastic Home Base, a completely free digital destination which offers stories, characters, games, and a community of readers. Home Base is moderated for safety 24/7.
- For more information log onto www.scholastic.com/site/summer/home.html