The Mid-Continent Public Library (MCPL) is gearing up for its annual celebration of reading and storytelling with the launch of the 2024 Summer at MCPL program, themed “Telling Tales”. From June 1st through August 24th, families are invited to immerse themselves in the words of literature by dedicating 20 minutes a day to reading or participating in library programs.
Whether it’s diving into a captivating novel, exploring the wonders of non-fiction, or sharing bedtime stories with loved ones, Summer at MCPL encourages everyone to embrace the magic of storytelling and to make sure kids stay educated over the summer. “Reading over the summer months is one of the best ways to avoid the ‘summer slide’ and make sure kids head back to school ready to learn in the fall,” said Colleen Norman, MCPL Programming and Signature Events Manager. “Our goal is to help families make reading a fun part of their everyday routine, which ultimately helps kids both in school and life.”
Participants will have the opportunity to earn rewards and win prizes throughout the summer. For readers aged 0-19, simply logging each day of reading will unlock a daily reading badge, with special prize books awaiting those who complete 20, 40, and 60 days of reading. Additionally, young readers registered in Beanstack, a digital reading encouragement app, will have the chance to earn prizes from MCPL’s community partners: B&B Theaters, The Coterie Theater, Faulkner’s Ranch, Kansas City Royals, KC Zoo, Legoland Discovery Center, Raising Canes, Sealife KC, WonderScope, and Worlds of Fun.
The program not only offers incentives for reading but also encourages creative ways to achieve daily goals. From following recipes in the kitchen to exploring board game instructions or identifying signs at the grocery store, participants are encouraged to find unique ways to incorporate reading into their daily lives. MCPL emphasizes that reading comes in many forms and encourages individuals to explore various literacy activities throughout the summer. “Reading every day can seem like a daunting task, but in reality, many of us are flexing our literacy muscles all day long without realizing it,” said MCPL Youth Services Librarian Scott Rader. “Even the most routine errands can be turned into learning opportunities, and that’s something we hope families will have fun exploring this summer.”
However, it’s not just kids who get to have all the fun as adults aged 20 and above are also encouraged to participate and reap the rewards of summer reading. Those who log 60 or more days of reading will receive a coveted Summer at MCPL: Telling Tales commemorative glass For those interested in supporting MCPL’s mission of promoting literacy and fostering community engagement, the library recommends donating to the MCPL’s Summer Reading Endowment Fund. Whether you’re a bookworm eager to devour your next literary adventure or a family seeking quality time together through the magic of storytelling, Summer at MCPL promises something for everyone.
You can find a full list of Summer Library Program events, get additional program information, and sign up to participate at mymcpl.org/Summer. Paper logs are also available at MCPL’s 34 branches to sign up and track reading.
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