The Maryland Summer Reading Program kicks off in local libraries this month, and it’s a great opportunity to keep the kids reading and learning while school’s out.
This year’s statewide theme is “Every Hero Has a Story,” a program that focuses on everything hero related: superheroes, sidekicks, superpowers and the triumph of good over evil. Everyday heroes are also featured with stories about veterans, those living with a chronic condition or community activists.
There are different reading lists for every age level, from preschoolers to teens. Some counties also have programs for adults, so you can join your child in the fun. Many libraries offer prizes at the end of the summer based on the number of books read. Find out more about the events and programs at your local library below.
Anne Arundel County
Anne Arundel County’s Summer Reading Program kickoff parties will be held the week of June 21-27. The kickoff events will stick with the superhero theme and involve crafts, games and the chance to form your own superhero identity. Check out the Anne Arundel County Library website schedule to find your branch’s kick off time.
For the rest of the season, keep an eye on your library’s calendar for superhero-themed movie nights, concerts, performances and other events. The Summer Reading Club also has a partnership with the Bowie Baysox, and members of the club ages 16 and younger can march in an on-field parade and be recognized for their reading achievements during the Summer Reading Night Aug. 8. All Summer Reading Club members receive a free voucher for the game.
Calvert County
Each branch holds a weekly Superhero Training Academy throughout the summer that lets kids explore their favorite heroes and powers, with a snack and a craft included.
The Calvert Library Prince Frederick branch holds Monday Morning Movies every Monday at 10 a.m. from June 22-Aug. 3 for children 5 and under. Kids can watch cartoons, sing together and color. Lego days are held every Saturday from 3-4 p.m. starting June 27, and be sure to catch frequent Minecraft events for older kids.
The Calvert County Summer Reading Program offers free tickets to Southern Maryland Blue Crabs, Bowie Baysox and Baltimore Orioles baseball games for reading a certain number of books.
See the Calvert County Library website for more details and events.
Howard County
Children of any age, preschool to high school, are welcome to participate in theHoward County summer reading program. Read to earn raffle tickets that will be entered in a drawing at every branch in August. And the fun’s not just for kids—Howard County offers a program and book list for adults too! Complete your own summer reading list alongside your child and discover some great new books along the way. Check out their website for reading lists and prize information.
Queen Anne’s County
The Kent Island library story time for ages 2-5 is held weekly on Thursdays starting June 18, and will involve superhero-themed stories, songs, rhymes and movement, followed by a craft.
Older children and teens that are registered with the Summer Reading Program will get the chance to design their own comic character, make art out of comic books, and show off their superhero movie knowledge on a trivia night.
For more events and information on registration, see the Queen Anne’s County Library website.
Prince George’s County
The first 3500 students who register with the Summer Reading Program receive a free t-shirt.
Participants can attend events and performances like Superhero Training Academy, puppet and magic shows, superhero movie nights, cosplay workshops and story times with community heroes.
See the Prince George’s County Library website for a full list of all the events being held this summer, and for a look at the prizes.
