Johnson County Library's Summer Reading Program is an initiative that promotes reading and literacy to children and teens. Each Summer, the Library offers a special selection of programs and events connected to the year's theme. This year’s theme, Read, Score, Roar!, was chosen by metro libraries across the Kansas City region. We are excited to celebrate Summer Reading across the region!
During the Summer, we'll offer our regular programming like the American Girl Book Club and Craft and Chat. We also have plenty of special Read, Score, Roar! programming, focusing on dinosaurs and soccer. With events like Faberge-Inspired Dinosaur Eggs, Baby FIFA World Cup 2026™️and The What If Puppets Present: T-Rex Stole My Toothbrush, we've got plenty for the whole family to enjoy.
Summer Reading starts Monday, June 1!
- Swing by to choose a free book June 1-July 31 (while supplies last)
- Pick up or print your reading log
- Enter the Friends of the Library bookmark design contest (applications in branch and downloadable coming soon!)
- Stay up on the latest by subscribing to the Kids and Family email newsletter
By offering access to books, programs and presenters during the summer months, we encourage our community to keep reading while school is out to reduce 'summer slide,' the phenomenon where reading skills regress over a period of being out of practice. Research shows that kids who don’t practice reading skills during times when school is not in session can lose gains in ability made the previous academic year. Regular reading over the summer supports success during the coming school year, including increased test scores. In fact, just 20 minutes of reading a day can provide exponential gains for a child’s exposure to language, the long-term amount of time engaged in text, and as a result a greater understanding of the world around them.
With the goal of promoting reading in mind, the Library aims to build in-home libraries through our book giveaways. Having access to books within arm’s reach naturally promotes an increase in daily reading habits. Branches will begin offering one free book per family member beginning Monday, June 1 and conclude July 31 while supplies last. Please note, Spring Hill and Cedar Roe’s book distribution will be delayed until they are reopened after planned renovation projects complete.
In addition, the Library remains committed to community outreach and building in-home libraries. We are once again working with community partners like school districts, rec centers and non-profit organizations to give away books at their events and locations.
We’ll update Summer Reading and social media @jocolibrary with new information and updates. You can also sign up for a bi-weekly Kids and Family email newsletter in May, June and July with featured programming, reading recommendations, and more tips for summer fun.
