This year’s summer library program at WCPLS allows for children, teens, and adults of all ages to learn with hands-on experiences and explore new interests with our summer reading theme of Adventure Begins at Your Library. This year’s theme will focus on adventures in nature and outdoors, with events, programs, and guest performers to match! WCPLS’s summer reading program begins Saturday, May 18, and continues until Saturday, August 3. The official summer reading kickoff at the Main Library in Franklin will be Saturday, June 1, from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, with the Nashville Zoo providing two hands-on programs for families and children of all ages. Check with your local WCPLS branch for information about their specific summer reading kickoff activities.

Summer reading programs are a fantastic way to continue your child’s education while preventing any loss of literacy skills and vocabulary that they have gained during the school year. Setting aside dedicated time for reading is essential in preventing the “summer slide” and is a great opportunity for parents and kids to connect through a shared love of reading and accomplishment! Children who participate in summer reading programs not only strengthen their reading comprehension and improve their memory skills, but many will also see a boost in their self-esteem. Summer reading programs can also ignite a life-long passion for reading in both children and adults. Parents and children are welcome and encouraged to attend some of WCPLS’s featured fun and educational programs, which include science shows, nature exploration and education, music shows, and more! Don’t forget about our regular summer story times for babies, toddlers, and pre-k kids too!