Summer Reading Programs 2015

If you haven’t already noticed, our family doesn’t really need much incentive to read, but it’s nice there are lots of places offering incentives for kids to read through the summer. Reading is one of our favorite things to do when it’s too hot to go outside. I know there are many programs out there, but these are a few that we have taken part in and enjoy! For some others that we have seen listed, you would have to do a little something to actually earn the prize.

Half Price Books – They have programs for different age groups. Kids 14 and under who read for 15 minutes a day June and in July will receive $5 HPB Bookworm Bucks each month. Turn in your reading log at the end of each month. If you’ve been to HPB, you know $5 can go a long way if you find the right books. Runs from June 1 to July 31.
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Barnes & Noble – This summer reading program, Imagination’s Destination, is only for kids in grades 1-6. I think this is the easiest program for my kids because they hate keeping track of the number of minutes they read. Read 8 books and write down the title, author, and a sentence telling who you recommend the book to and why in a journal. Then, pick a free book off of the list when you go to turn in your journal. Runs from May 19 to September 7. | 2012 |  2013

Alameda County Libraries – This year’s theme is Read to the Rhythm. There are programs for all ages, from babies up to adults. Every 30 minutes of reading or listening to a story, or completing an activity (on the back of game board), color in one instrument on the game board. Each colored instrument is one spin. There is a First Prize halfway through the game board path and a Final Prize at the end of the game board path. Prizes range from museum and zoo vouchers to coupons for local restaurants. Sign-ups runs from June 8 to August 8. Program runs until August 31. | 2010 | Game Begins 2011 | Joyce 2011 | 2012

 

San Leandro Library –  This year’s theme is Every Hero has a Story. There are programs for all ages, from babies up to adults. Kids have to write a short report for each of the eight books they have to read. Bring in the reports each week to receive a stamp and small prizes. Sign-ups run from June 6 to August 2. Turn in reports by August 7 to receive an invitation to the end-of-summer carnival, and passes to local attractions. | 2010 | Completion 2010 | Melody 2011 | Emily 2011 |  Carnival 2011

I’m not familiar with the rest of these summer reading program, but you can check them out for more free stuff!

• Pizza Hut Book It Program – I think it runs throughout the year. You get free pizza.
• Scholastics Summer Reading Challenge – Log minutes and earn rewards.
• Berkeley Public Library – Runs from May 15 – June 7.
• Oakland Public Library – Starts June 13. More details to come.
• Alameda Free Library – Runs from June 13 – August 8. Looks like some great prizes and fun activities happening here this summer!