Benefits of Summer Reading Continue into Fall

Summer is only a handful of memories at this point, but children and teens who participated in Marin County Free Library’s “Reading is SO Delicious” program this summer are still reaping the benefits of summer reading into the new school year.

Countywide, over 4,000 children and over 750 teens signed up for the Library’s summer reading program.  Children who read for three hours a week earned prizes, such as crayons and a diner hat, a crazy straw, or a pizza coupon.  Children who completed the summer program earned the grand prize: a snazzy silver lunchbox.  Teens who submitted online reviews were eligible for raffle prizes, and many won Giants tickets or gift cards to local establishments.

According to a White House study, reading just 5 books over the summer prevents learning loss.  Children can lose 2-3 months of progress in reading achievement over the summer, but children who participate in the Library’s summer reading program are better prepared for the next school year.  Said one parent in West Marin, “I like this program because it influences our children to practice their reading!”

“Throughout the school year, a lot of what children read is required.  At the library in the summer, they can choose what they want to read for fun, and often they discover new interests,” said Margaret Miles, Chair of the Children’s Services Committee.  “The Library encourages children to become life-long learners.”

During the summer children had the opportunity to attend a multitude of free programs throughout the county, including magicians, musicians, puppet shows, wildlife presentations, and craft programs.  While providing entertainment value, these programs also provided supervised enrichment activities where children could socialize in a safe environment. 

 Teens learned the history and art of henna, built a solar oven, discussed books, and attended a variety of maker camps.  The “Reading is SO Delicious” theme also led to a variety of food-related programs for adults as well as teens, including making sushi, pizza, salads, and a Teen Iron Chef competition.

 Prizes and programs for the MCFL summer reading program are sponsored by Marin County Friends of the Library, and by individual Friends groups at each branch.

Marin County Free Library continues to support education in October with Science Month.  Visit www.marinlibrary.org for a complete list of programs and activities.