More than 26,000 kids, teens and adults took part in the Indianapolis Public Library’s summer reading program, logging more than 21.9 million minutes of reading. The program ended on July 31 and surpassed IndyPl’s goal of 18 million minutes.
“The Summer Reading Program motivates children to keep up their reading and learning throughout the summer,” said Devery North, program specialist at IndyPL. “Our programs encourage participants to delve into new interests and forge new friendships, fostering habits of lifelong learning.”
More than 22,000 kids participated and earned prizes donated by the community, ranging from Indians tickets to museum passes. Prizes were earned at milestones of one, five, 10, 15 and 20 hours. Participants were entered in drawings for grand prizes such as Indiana529 Direct Saving Plans.
This year, IndyPL introduced an Early Literacy Tracker for families with children younger than 5 to track their time writing, singing, playing and talking.
More than 8,400 children attended free summer programs such as Paws for a Cause, an event that allowed IndyPL to donate more than 280 tug toys and blankets to IndyHumane.
Throughout the program, patrons dropped off new and gently used books at donation bins, which were donated to the Boys & Girls Club of Indianapolis.
Thousands of adults also participated in programs such as gardening and gaming classes.
“We deeply appreciate the donors who have made The Library’s summer reading programs for both youth and adults a reality,” said Roberta Knickerbocker Jaggers, president of the Indianapolis Public Library Foundation. “None of this free programming would be possible without our donors. Their support has helped unite the community and cultivate a love of reading across all ages.”
To learn more, visit IndyPL.org.
Contact Health & Environmental Reporter Hanna Rauworth at 317-762-7854 or follow her on Instagram at @hanna.rauworth.
