Summer Reading Programs for New York City Kids
There are plenty of reading options and programs for kids to stay engaged this summer. Now that the school year is over, it’s absolutely vital that kids keep up with reading!
Summer literacy loss is real. Summer reading programs provide an excellent opportunity for readers to stay encouraged and on-track, through activities, conversations with peers, and prizes.
These programs provide hours of entertainment, productivity, education, and fun — check out our favorites!
Psst… Check out our Summer Reading List for Kids of All Ages!
Barnes and Noble
Receive a free book this summer when you read any of the eight books from their Summer Reading Journal list. Pick eight exciting books and fill out the journal explaining your favorite part of each book and why.
Then, bring the log back to a Barnes and Noble store from July 1 to August 31st and receive your free book from the book list. For grades first through sixth.
Brooklyn Public Library
The Brooklyn Public Library is offering a children’s booklist full of reading options for the entire summer. Most of the titles listed are available in formats like eBooks and eAudio books, making this list perfect for reading on the go.
There are plenty of activities like storytelling, arts and crafts, performances, and games for kids to enjoy throughout the summer.
In addition, explore all of the different locations in the Brooklyn Public Library system this summer with the Browse the Branches passport and win prizes.
When you fill out half of your passport, win a bookmark and 25% off an item at the Brooklyn Public Library web shop. And get a special tote when you fill out the whole passport!
Scholastic Summer Reading Home Base
Scholastic is providing a community for kids who love reading while improving access to books during the summer. Through Sept. 12, kids can visit the summer zone in Scholastic Home Base, a completely free online spot for stories, characters, games and a community of readers. The best part is, Home Base is moderated 24/7.
Scholastic Home Base also encourages kids to keep a “Reading Streak” throughout the summer. The longer your kid extends their reading streak, the more digital experiences they earn. This option is perfect for encouraging a summertime routine.
Queens Public Library
Queens Public Library is providing summer content for children and teens. Hosting storytelling, singing, coding, and more, there’s never a dull moment on the program’s calendar. If you’re looking for a new summer read, check out their curated booklists for all reading levels!
Kids and families can sign up for the library’s summer reading challenge on READSquared. Every minute you read is a point towards unlocking games and badges. Once you’ve earned enough points, you can unlock a printable and sharable completion certificate!
Summer at the Library
The New York Public Library is hosting a summer program, offering ways for your child to stay engaged with reading and free activities. Kids can track their reading and activities to become a Summer Star at the library!
Take the Library’s 60-day reading challenge, reading for at least 2o minutes every day and doing activities in your neighborhood.
Head to your local branch to pick up an activity and reading tracker, or download and print them at home!
New York State Senate Summer Reading Program
Your kids can get a Certificate of Achievement from their New York State Senator to commemorate their reading this summer. Simply fill out the online form with your child’s information and what they read. Just be sure to submit the form by September 1!
