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 a little 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 15 through July 28. 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. All programs require registration.
- Monterey County Free Libraries: 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
“Read Beyond The Beaten Path” is the theme for this summer’s program running from June 1 to July 30. The program will be a celebration of the many ways that reading can expand your child’s world 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 reading by keeping track of your time in the “Beanstack” app or online.
- Monterey Public Library
- 625 Pacific Street, Monterey, 93940
- monterey.org/library
- (831) 646-3933
PACIFIC GROVE PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Summer Reading Program begins June 8. The program includes weekly entertainment on Wednesdays at 2:00 pm at Jewell Park in Pacific Grove.
- Pacific Grove Public Library
- 550 Central Ave, Pacific Grove, 93950
- www.pacificgrovelibrary.org
- (831) 648-5760
SALINAS PUBLIC LIBRARY
Join the Salinas Public Library for fun, engaging, and free in-person activities all summer long. Kids can complete 14 days of reading to get a book prize, read for another 14 days to get an additional book. Register online or at the library.
- Salinas Public Library
- 350 Lincoln Ave., Salinas, 93901
- www.SalinasPublicLibrary.org • (831) 758-7311
SANTA CRUZ PUBLIC LIBRARY
The 2022 Summer Reading program Kicks off on June 1 and runs through July 31. SCPL will be offering a variety of events, including circus, magic, and puppet shows, dancers, drumming, and a virtual interactive bilingual presentation featuring Delrita the Elephant. In addition, the Library will provide Summer Reading Outreach Pop-up Programming events through the “Lunch at the Library” grant administered by the California State Librarian. Library staff will visit six sites that provide summer meals to students throughout the county, with free books, giveaways, and reading logs.
After completing 5 hours of reading, kids 0-11 receive a free book to keep, and teens receive a backpack with goodies. After reading 20 hours, kids and teens receive a Free Scoop Coupon from Penny Ice Creamery. They also receive raffle tickets for completing activities incorporating STEAM, outdoor exploration, and creative expression while providing opportunities for practicing critical thinking, collaboration, and communication.
- Santa Cruz Public Library
- 224 Church Street, Santa Cruz, 95060
- santacruzpl.org/srp • (831) 427-7713
WATSONVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY
The annual Summer Reading Program will run from
June 6 - 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.
- Watsonville Public Library
- 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 August 19, 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.