Summer Reading Kicks Off at Alameda County Library

FREMONT, Calif., June 7, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Alameda County Library's annual Summer Reading program runs now through September 15, 2017. This year's theme – Ready for Tomorrow – inspires readers of all ages to learn something new and connect with their communities. Participants will try something new at home, in the community, and around the globe. They can: read a new book, visit a new place, try a new craft, volunteer at an organization, and meet new people. Participants will have a chance to win free books and prizes by reading and completing various activities. You can sign up for the Summer Reading program at http://summer.aclibrary.org.

Libraries play a special role during the summer by providing educational programs that boost literacy and educational opportunities. According to the Campaign for Grade-Level Reading, "Low-income students lose an average of more than two months in reading achievement in the summer, while their middle-income peers tend to make gains in reading."

"Our Summer Reading program helps bridge the gap in academic achievement by getting books and other literacy tools into the hands of children and families who need it the most," said Cindy Chadwick, County Librarian.

This year's Summer Reading program incorporates an intergenerational format that enhances participation between people of all ages. There are no age specific formats; everyone plays one game. "With this intergenerational format, a child can play with their parents, teens can play with their grandparents, and siblings of different ages can play together. The point is that these activities model learning and help foster connections within families and communities," said Anna Gonzalez, Children's Services Coordinator.  

The online program expands access. Offering the program online means that you can participate even if you can't make it to the library or if you are away on summer vacation. Plus participants can access the game from their mobile devices at any time.  

Children, teens, and adults who participate will be entered into a drawing to win the following grand prizes:

• Fjallraven Backpack (for Children)
• VTech Camera (for Children)
• Beats Earbud Headphones (for Teens and Adults) 
• Fujifilm Waterproof Camera (for Teens and Adults) 
• Timbuk2 Backpack (for Teens and Adults) 

This year's program will run an additional four weeks to accommodate summer learning throughout the entire summer. Research shows that youth who read over the summer months avoid summer learning loss and return to school better equipped to continue with their studies.

Last year, more than 15,000 people signed up for Alameda County Library's Summer Reading program. To learn more about the Summer Reading program visit: www.aclibrary.org.     

Contact:

Alicia Reyes, Public Information Specialist
[email protected], 510-745-1544

SOURCE Alameda County Library

Related Links

http://www.aclibrary.org