NEW ORLEANS – The New Orleans Public Library is gearing up for their annual Summer Fun & Reading Challenge. With two months packed full of events, activities, prizes and more for children, teens and adults of all ages, there’s something for everyone at the Library this summer.
The beloved tradition is a fun way to combat the “summer slide,” or the tendency for students to lose some of the educational gains they made during the previous school year. Libraries across the country host summer reading programs to fill those gaps, encourage reading as a lifelong habit, and increase interest in libraries.
Executive Director and City Librarian Emily Painton said Summer Fun & Reading is a great way to keep reading skills sharp, make new discoveries, and create unforgettable memories.
“Whether you’re a lifelong book lover or just discovering the magic within the pages, our program is your ticket to a summer filled with exploration, wonder, connection, and fun,” said Emily Painton, City Librarian and executive director. “The story never has to end; it’s just the beginning of an endless summer of fun, learning, and family time.”
Everyone who signs up receives a prize just for registering – kids get a free book for their age group, a fun incentive to kick off their reading time. This year’s registration prize for adults is their choice of either a multi-use charger or a reading light. Teens have their pick between a YA book, the charger, or the reading light.
Logging 800 minutes of reading and completing a variety of Library-themed activities will earn participants another prize – including a limited-edition tote bag designed by local artist Tamisha Anthony.
The 2024 Summer Fun & Reading Challenge is sponsored by the Friends of the New Orleans Public Library, and Executive Director Shannan Cvitanovic said this year’s program may be the best one yet.
“Every summer, we’re excited to see what new ideas the librarians have for programming that is as fun as it is educational,” said Cvitanovic. “We want to thank the GPOA Foundation and the Jazz and Heritage Foundation for providing the funding for Summer Fun and for encouraging Library staff to think bigger and better every summer.”
The Library’s Summer Fun & Reading program also features an exciting array of events and activities for people of all ages and interests –– all of which are free and open to the public. Preregistration is open now, but the fun officially runs from June 1 to July 31.
Visit summerfun.nolalibrary.org to learn more or visit any Library location to sign up.
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