School is out for summer, and that means one thing for Youth Services Librarians – it is time for the Summer Reading Program.   The Summer Reading Program is a fun way to incorporate reading and literacy-related activities into summer family time.

In addition to combating boredom, continued reading throughout the summer enables children to maintain and improve their reading skills, thus preventing the “summer slide” of learning loss. The Neuse Regional Libraries are excited to welcome participants to enjoy a summer of Tails and Tales adventures and engaging performances.

This year, registration for the Summer Reading Program takes place online using the READsquared website (http://neuselibrary.readsquared.com/) or app. After completing the registration process, participants can access games, discover fun missions, and log the number of minutes they have read. By completing missions and logging minutes read, participants earn levels of prizes as they advance through the program and meet their goals. There are 36 missions to choose from, including a community Scavenger Hunt, Craft Challenge, STEM Project, and Together We Read Family Reading Challenge. Participants only have to complete 20 missions, so there are lots of options.

Participants also earn points that can be redeemed for virtual tickets towards the grand prize drawings.  This year’s grand prizes include Razor scooters, Amazon gift cards, corn hole sets, stomp rocket sets, and gaming headsets. If participants want to follow their progress on paper, they can pick up a board game guide at their local library. Registration starts June 1, and participants have until July 30 to complete the program and log all completed missions and minutes read.

In addition to completing their Summer Reading Challenges, participants have the opportunity to attend Summer Reading Sessions and enjoy the talents of amazing performers, listen to stories, play games, and engage in learning activities throughout the month of June. Just a few of the featured performers across our region are Big Bang Boom, Casey’s Laugh and Learn, Wild at Heart Wildlife Sanctuary, the North Carolina Zoo, Magic by David, Grey Seal Puppets, Dana Hill Magic, and Didgeridoo Down Under. Summer Reading Sessions start June 7. Please check READsquared for the performance schedule, or stop by your local library to pick up a paper copy. Each session meets once per week, and usually lasts for 45 minutes to 1 hour.  Session attendance is not required for your child to participate in the Summer Reading Program.  Summer Reading Sessions are free and open to the public. They will be offered at the following Neuse Regional Libraries and community partner locations:

Pearson Park

Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m.

Pink Hill Public Library

Wednesdays at 11:00 a.m.

La Grange Public Library

Wednesdays at 3:00 p.m.

Greene County Wellness Center

Mondays at 11:00 a.m.

Jones County Civic Center

Tuesdays at 2:00 p.m.

Neuse Regional Libraries also offer a Teen Summer Reading Program. Teens ages 13-17 can register online via the READsquared website (http://neuselibrary.readsquared.com/) or app. Registration starts June 1, and participants have until July 30 to log all completed missions and minutes read. Summer Reading Sessions will be offered during the month of June at the following locations:

Kinston-Lenoir County Public Library

Thursdays at 3:00 p.m.

La Grange Public Library

Wednesdays at 4:00 p.m.

Pink Hill Public Library

Tuesdays at 3:30 p.m.

For more information about the Summer Reading Programs, please contact the Youth Services Department at 252-527-7066, ext. 133 or via email at ahargett@neuselibray.org.