US Libraries Launch Summer Reading Programs

The Muskingum County Library System in Ohio kicked off its week‑long Summer Reading celebration on May 30, featuring outdoor games, a bookmobile preview and a prize giveaway that includes a Nintendo Switch Lite, a $150 gift card and a stay at Dillon State Park. Youth Services Manager Katie Merritt said, “Oh we got some good ones… we have a Bluey bundle, a Nintendo Switch Lite… a one‑night stay at Dillon State Park.” The program runs through July 31 and aims for 2.5 million reading minutes, open to all ages.

Meanwhile, the Deschutes Public Library in Bend, Oregon opened its free “Summer with the Library” program on June 1. Participants sign up, track reading and activities on Beanstack, and can earn a free book. The kickoff event on June 6 at Alpenglow Park includes line‑dancing, face painting and activities with the Children’s Museum of Central Oregon. Youth Services Supervisor Chandra vanEijnsbergen noted, “Summer learning can happen anywhere.” Both initiatives encourage community members across Ohio and Oregon to read throughout the summer.