Georgia’s public libraries will offer a diverse selection of programs for their communities including talented performers who present puppet or magic shows, STEM activities, art, or music. Be sure to check your local library’s schedule to take advantage of these fun opportunities.

“Summer reading programs at public libraries are one of the most cherished and vital summer programs in communities all across Georgia, but even more so in rural areas,” said Evan Michael Bush, director of Youth Services at Georgia Public Library Service. “Libraries are bustling community hubs that provide engaging programs, summer meals, access to technology, books, STEAM activities, opportunities to connect, and so much more. For many families it is one of the few free ways to engage children during the summer months.”

In addition to traditional paper reading logs, all families have access to Beanstack, a digital platform that not only helps kids keep track of their reading, but also allows them to earn badges by engaging in a wide variety of engaging outdoor and indoor activities.

Additionally, families with a baby or toddler can get a jump start on pre-reading skills by participating in the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program.

Many public libraries also serve as meal or snack sites for the USDA’s Summer Food Service Program, which provides free healthy meals and snacks to young people in communities with high rates of poverty.

Libraries help families read and discover on the go.

Beyond books, families can check out a Launchpad interactive learning tablet for their child, which come pre-loaded with apps and games to encourage language and literacy development.

Families can get free or reduced admission to more than a dozen destinations and a range of enriching activities by checking out one of many Experience Passes, just like a book, which are available at all public libraries through the Georgia Public Library Service. Families can enjoy the outdoors at Georgia State Parks, go see a play at Alliance Theatre, discover local history at Macon Museums, and more.

Many libraries also offer a unique library of things for people who want to learn a new skill, including items ranging from sewing machines to tech kits to ukuleles. Through library makerspaces, children can express their creativity with hands-on activities that encourage critical thinking while they learn about robotics, engineering, electronics, and more.

Summer reading programs typically take place from late May through late July or early August. Check your local library for their summer schedule. Learn more about summer reading at the library at georgialibraries.org/summer-reading.

Georgia Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled to offer an engaging Summer Reading Program for Georgians of all abilities.

The Georgia Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (GLS) Summer Reading Program is now open for registration. This year’s program will take place from June 1 – July 31, 2024. Participants of all ages will have fun and earn points by reading, attending in-person or virtual events, completing activities at home, and will have a chance to win a prize at the end.

GLS will host an in-person kickoff on June 7 at the Washington Memorial Library in Macon, which will feature music, storytelling, snacks, and interactive fun that all ages can enjoy.

GLS will offer weekly reading club meetings during June and July for readers of all ages and their families to gather in a virtual room and discuss books and other topics. Participants can also enjoy an exciting lineup of virtual author talks, storytimes, and interactive online activities hosted by the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled.

This summer reading program is reserved for those who are currently enrolled with GLS. To learn if you meet the eligibility requirements to enroll, call 800-248-6701 or email [email protected].

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Georgia Public Library Service empowers libraries to improve the lives of all Georgians by encouraging reading, literacy and education through the continuing support and improvement of our public libraries. Georgia Public Library Service is a unit of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia. www.georgialibraries.org