Summer Reading kicks off June 21 at Pierce County Library

Take advantage of a wide selection of reading materials and more than 450 free events during Pierce County Library’s summer reading program June 21-Aug. 31. The library provides the largest free summer learning opportunity available in the county. Last year more than 35,000 children participated in summer reading, and event attendance has more than doubled since 2007.

Take advantage of a wide selection of reading materials and more than 450 free events during Pierce County Library’s summer reading program June 21-Aug. 31. The library provides the largest free summer learning opportunity available in the county. Last year more than 35,000 children participated in summer reading, and event attendance has more than doubled since 2007.

Ages 0-3: Wee Readers

Children ages 0-3 and their parents or caregivers can participate in Wee Readers to build early learning skills. By completing reading logs with their parents or caregivers, young readers can earn prizes.

Ages 3-12: Fizz Boom Read

Events, books and other materials at all libraries feature the theme Fizz Boom Read, which focuses on learning in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). Kids and tweens perform experiments, learn with experts from Museum of Flight and Pacific Science Center, explore science through juggling and magic, and more. Reading prizes include free passes to Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium or Northwest Trek, mood pencils and science kits, while supplies last. Children who read 15 hours can enter a drawing to win an iPad mini (a gift from Pierce County Library Foundation).

Teens: Spark a Reaction

With Teen Summer Challenge: Spark a Reaction, the library offers an online gamification program for ages 13 and up. All activities are related to STEM. Teens complete activities to unlock badges organized around four types of engagement: Play, Discover, Learn, and Read. Pierce County Library Foundation will award an iPad mini to a winner randomly selected from the top point earners.

Parents: Literary Elements

New this year: Literary Elements. Parents who read one book this summer can enter the parents grand prize drawing for a chance to win a digital camera, a gift from Pierce County Library Foundation. Adults also can participate in book clubs, author events, book bingo and more.

Read Down Fines

This summer ages 3-12 can read down fines they have accrued. For the first 10 hours of reading, kids and tweens may earn one coupon for up to $5 off their library fines.

Sponsors

Safeco Insurance, Simpson Lumber, Macy’s, MultiCare Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital, Pediatrics Northwest, Totem Ocean Trailer Express, Umpqua Bank, University of Washington Tacoma and Wells Fargo are the primary sponsors for Pierce County Library’s Summer Reading program, along with Pierce County Library Foundation and Friends of the Libraries.