Once the school year ends, children face the summer slide where they miss out on learning opportunities and often fall behind academically. A study funded by the U.S. Department of Education showed that summer reading loss can add up to the equivalent of three years of reading loss by the end of 5th grade. If left unattended, the gap can widen to four years of reading loss by the end of 12th grade. This issue has a harsh effect on low-income children with more than 80% of children from economically disadvantaged communities losing reading skills over the summer.
To combat these statistics and help local children reach their full potential, the Long Beach librarians are taking on the role of literary travel agents for the “Reading Takes You Everywhere” Summer Reading Program. This year’s theme invites readers to explore new worlds, both real and fictional, with passports provided by the Library to track their literary journeys. Librarians reward readers in the program with prizes. There are over 70 events and activities for children, teens, adults, and families from story times and live musical performances to magic shows and encounters with visiting wildlife.
The Library Foundation is proud to once again support this program thanks to donations to our organization, including a generous contribution from Niagara Cares. Visit your local Long Beach Public Library to embark on your journey. CLICK HERE to check out the Summer Reading events calendar.
If you would like to support the Library Foundation as we continue to fund Library programs like summer reading, consider making a tax-deductible donation.
