Summer break is almost here, and while kids may be dreaming of popsicles, pool days, and sleeping late, parents everywhere are wondering one thing: “How do we keep those reading skills sharp?” The good news? Reading over the summer doesn’t have to feel like homework. Our local libraries always know how to make reading fun with exciting programs, story times, special guests, and reading challenges that keep kids turning pages all summer long. Add in fun reward programs like the BOOK IT! App, where kids can earn prizes and even free pizza, and suddenly reading becomes the hottest activity of the season. We’ve rounded up some of the best summer reading programs and incentives to help your kids stay motivated, entertained, and learning all summer long.
Don't forget to download your FREE reading challenge bookmarks now! This is the one thing that actually works for us.👇
Get Your FREE Summer Reading Challenge Bookmarks
These printable bookmarks turn reading into a fun challenge with prompts like: Read a mystery, a superhero story, or a book recommended by a friend.
It’s simple, fun, and gives them just enough structure without feeling like school.
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Download the FREE bookmarks →
Your Local Library
Your local libraries are still one of the best places to find free summer reading fun.
Libraries usually offer a wide range of summer programming for kids, and sometimes even adults too. These programs usually begin as soon as local schools start summer break, or very shortly after.
Special Kick-Off Events on May 30th, 2026
Ouachita Parish Public Library: Plant a Seed, Read!
Lincoln Parish Library: Plant a Seed, Read!
Richland Parish Library: Kickoff Festival to Summer Reading
Union Parish Library (More Information Coming Soon!)
Pizza Hut BOOK IT!
During June, July, and August 2026, any child who meets their parent-set reading goals can earn a free Pizza Hut single-topping Personal Pan Pizza from participating locations.
Use the BOOK IT! Mobile App to set goals, track progress, and redeem rewards.
New York Times Summer Reading Contest
This one is a great fit for teens.
Teens can read The New York Times and answer the prompt, “What got your attention in The Times this week?” each week for 10 weeks beginning in June.
There will be free teen-friendly content available to anyone without a subscription. Entries are judged, and winning entries are published on The Learning Network. There are specific rules to follow, plus advice for creating a winning entry, so be sure to read the full details on their website.
Mensa for Kids Excellence in Reading Program
Looking for a more structured reading challenge? The Mensa for Kids Excellence in Reading Program encourages kids to read from grade-level book lists and earn recognition for completing an entire list. Kids who complete the program can earn a commemorative certificate and an Excellence in Reading T-shirt.
This program is open to readers under 18 and is a year-round program, so kids can keep reading even after summer ends.
To participate, kids choose a list, track the books they read by hand, and submit the completed list and order form to the Mensa Foundation.
More info and reading lists here.
Need some book suggestions? Check out this list:
Read Across America: 50 Kids' Books, One for Each State
Make Your Own Summer Reading Challenge
None of these a good fit for your family? Use our free printable bookmarks to make up your own challenge and prizes!
You can design your own bookmark with family reading goals or use one of our pre-made challenges and offer small weekly rewards, or let kids choose their own prize after finishing a certain number of books.
It’s simple, fun… and might just buy you a little less “I’m bored” this summer.
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