One of the best things you can do with your child during the summer is read. (And remember, reading independently is just as important as reading together.) To keep kids motivated during the Summer in Los Angeles, there are several free summer reading programs that help kids stay accountable for their reading minutes. Here are 13 Summer Reading Programs in and Around Los Angeles – Updated for 2020.
Los Angeles Unified students ages 13 and older may participate in the district’s A-List Book Club. This new program works in collaboration with Snap Inc. Students will enjoy four episodes featuring Alicia Keys, Russell Westbrook, Noah Centineo, and Kendall Jenner discussing some of their favorite books. Students can then receive a free digital copy of the book.
Glendale Public Library System Summer Reading Challenge
The Glendale Public Library System is hosting its annual summer reading program from June 1st through August 31st. This year’s theme is “Imagine Your Story.” Sign-up online is easy to do. Children will log their reading minutes and activities, earn special badges, and have the chance to win some fun prizes. In addition, check out the website for fun daily activities such as “Make It Mondays,” “Tell Me a Story Tuesdays,” and “Read Aloud Fridays.”
Barnes and Noble Summer Reading Program
Barnes and Noble makes it super-easy for kids (in grades 1-6) to earn a free book this summer. The program has already begun so families can download a “journal” and start keeping track of books read. Children read eight books of their choosing, write down their favorite part of each book, and then exchange the completed journal for a brand new book from Barnes and Noble (from a list of books on the journal). Exchange your summer reading journal for a new book between July 1st and August 31st.
Los Angeles Public Library Summer Reading Challenge
The Los Angeles Public Library System invites readers of all ages to participate in its yearly Summer Reading Challenge. The program began June 1st and continues through August 31st. Children earn points for books read as well as special online activities (attending a virtual program, listening to an audiobook, and more). Points convert into prizes. Register online and start tracking your summer reading.
Pasadena Public Library Summer Reading Program
The Pasadena Public Library system is also offering a virtual summer reading program from June 13th through August 8th. Readers of all ages (children, teens, adults) are welcome to participate. Record your reading, complete activities, and win prizes throughout the summer.
Los Angeles County Library Spring and Summer Discovery Program
The whole family can participate in the Los Angeles County Library System’s Summer Discovery Reading Program. Register online and start logging in the books you’ve read, write reviews, and complete online activities to earn points and prizes. All participants will also receive a certificate of completion.
Beverly Hills Public Library Summer Reading Club
The Beverly Hills Library invites readers of all ages to participate in its summer reading program “Dig Deeper: Read, Investigate, Discover.” The program began May 20th and continues all summer long. The program is divided up into age levels so every member of the family can join in. Keep track of your reading, your activities, and more. Don’t forget to check out the library’s YouTube channel for their Virtual Story Time.
Altadena Libraries Summer Reading Program
The Altadena Libraries invite families to “Imagine Your Story” during this year’s Summer Reading Program. The program began June 6th and allows families to “connect with stories you love, create new narratives, and engage with community at virtual events.” Log your reading and complete activities to earn prizes.
11th Annual New York Times Summer Reading Contest
The 11th Annual New York Times Summer Reading Contest is being held from June 12th through August 21st. This easy-to-do contest is designed for teenagers. Each week, teens from around the world are invited to select “something in The Times that has sparked their interest” and then explain why. Times newsroom judges will then select a few responses each week and publish them online. Details about the contest are available online.
Burbank Public Library Summer Reading 2020
Family members are invited to participate in the Burbank Library’s Summer Reading Program. The program began June 1st and continues through August 1st. Whether your little reader hasn’t yet started preschool, is a high schooler, or somewhere in between, children (and adults) of all ages can participate. The goal is to read every day. Keep track of the days you read to earn prizes.
South Pasadena Public Library Virtual 2020 Summer Reading Program
From June 1st through August 1st, families can participate in the South Pasadena Public Library Virtual 2020 Summer Reading Program. This year’s theme is “Dig Deeper: Read, Investigate, Discover.” Readers of all ages and abilities can track their reading minutes to win fun prizes. Also be sure to check out the website for information on the library’s YouTube channel as well as special activities such as “Harry Potter Trivia” happening July 27th-July 31st and “Teen Thursdays.”
The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation invites families to participate in its LA Reads program this summer. Children in grades 1-8 can track their reading time as they become reading champions! Readers are then eligible to win special Dodgers prizes.
Pizza Hut is encouraging kids to keep track of their reading during June, July, and August. When students meet their monthly reading goal, they’ll receive a free personal pan pizza through this free program.
Related: Free or Inexpensive Summer Programs for Kids
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