Come. Discover the wonder within you.
Summer is the perfect time to explore new stories, discover new interests, and develop lifelong reading habits. The Petersburg Public Library invites children and teens to participate in the 2026 Summer Reading Program, where reading can lead to exciting prizes while helping young readers maintain and strengthen their literacy skills.
How the Summer Reading Program Works
Participants are encouraged to read at least 30 minutes each day throughout the summer. Readers can track their progress using the Beanstack website or by using a paper reading log available through the Children’s Department.
In addition to logging reading time, participants will complete age-appropriate reading activities:
- Ages 2–6: Illustration reviews
- Ages 7–17: Book reviews
These activities encourage children and teens to engage more deeply with what they read while developing creativity, comprehension, and critical thinking skills.
Important Dates
Participants using paper reading logs should submit their completed logs to the Children’s Department by the following dates:
- June 30, 2026 – Deadline for entry into the first prize drawing
- July 30, 2026 – Deadline for entry into the final prize drawing
Grand Prize Drawing Dates
- July 1, 2026
- July 31, 2026
Prize Opportunities
Readers who participate in the Summer Reading Program will have opportunities to win a variety of prizes.
Ages 7–14
- Busy Boards
- Squishmallows
- 3D-Printed Spheres
- 3D-Printed Dragons
Ages 15–17
- Travel Duffle Bags
- 1 Billion Shape Magnetic Pyramid
Summer Events and Activities
The Summer Reading Program is about more than just reading—it’s about learning, creating, exploring, and having fun all summer long. In addition to reading and earning prizes, children, teens, and families are invited to participate in a variety of free programs and special events.
Movies on Mondays Series
Enjoy family-friendly films throughout the summer.
- June 8
- June 15
- June 22
- July 6
- July 13
- July 20
- July 27
Visit the Event Calendar for movie titles and showtimes.
Sharing a Harvest Event
- June 10
Goalie Game Workshop
Test your skills and enjoy outdoor fun.
- June 10
- 12:00 PM
- Small Parking Area
Pokémon Club
Meet fellow Pokémon fans, trade ideas, and enjoy themed activities.
Dates:
- June 13
- June 27
- July 11
- July 25
Story Time & Resource Session
Stories, learning, and resources for families.
Dates:
- June 20
- July 18
Kids Fit
Get active with outdoor fitness activities.
Date:
- June 26
- 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
- Parking Lot
TGICF – Thank Goodness It’s Craft Friday
Pick up free craft bags and enjoy creative activities throughout the summer while supplies last.
Teen Cuisine
Learn cooking skills and healthy food preparation in this six-class series.
Wednesdays:
- 11:15 AM – 12:15 PM
- Six classes total
YA Round Table
Ages 15–18
Join discussions about books, pop culture, and topics important to teens while helping create content for the library’s YouTube Channel.
Dates:
- June 18
- June 25
- July 9
- July 16
- July 23
- July 30
Science Heroes
Experience interactive science demonstrations and hands-on learning.
Date:
- July 15
- 12:30 PM
Summer Reading JAM
Celebrate a summer of reading with games, activities, and community fun.
Date:
- July 30
- 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM
Car Show
Close out the summer with an exciting display of classic and unique vehicles.
Date:
- July 31
- 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
For the latest information, event details, and schedule updates, visit the library’s Event Calendar or contact the Children’s Department.
Why Summer Reading Matters
Research shows that students who continue reading during the summer are better prepared for the next school year. Regular reading helps prevent the “summer slide,” a loss of academic skills that can occur when students are away from the classroom for extended periods.
Benefits of summer reading include:
- Developing a lifelong love of reading
- Strengthening reading comprehension skills
- Expanding vocabulary and language development
- Encouraging imagination and creativity
- Improving memory and concentration
- Building confidence and self-assurance
- Supporting academic success throughout the school year
Even just 30 minutes of reading each day can make a meaningful difference.
Get Started Today
Whether your child enjoys adventure stories, graphic novels, biographies, science books, or picture books, the Petersburg Public Library has resources for readers of all ages and interests.
Visit the Children’s Department to register, pick up a reading log, or learn more about participating through Beanstack.
Make reading part of your summer routine and discover where a good book can take you.
