We are very excited about this year’s summer reading program. People often ask us if we think up the theme, the displays, programs and other activities. The answer is “Yes” and the answer is “No”. The State Library of Iowa participates in a consortium called Collaborative Summer Library Program (CSLP) with over 40 other states. Each library has the option to use the theme chosen by the consortium or go on their own with a theme. Generally, we go with the same theme for our summer program. However, using the theme can mean many different things for many libraries. Through CSLP we can purchase the promotional materials at a much cheaper rate than we could if we were buying them on our own so we generally do that. There is a manual produced by librarians across the country that includes ideas for organization, publicity, programs, displays, handouts and much more. Librarians may choose what they want to use. So, we often use the manual for a starting point. We come up with our own ideas  for programs, reading logs and displays and hope that what we have chosen will be attractive to a wide audience of children and their families. Each year we try to have a different twist on the program and offer a wide variety of programs.

We are very fortunate to have Trinity as our sponsor again this year along with the Friends of the Library and the Library Foundation. We have some new partners this year in Monkey Joe’s and Noodles and Company. 

The theme for the summer is all about water with “Make a Splash – READ!” as the theme. The program begins on June 1 and will continue through July 31. We will be offering different levels of participation dependant on children’s reading abilities. We have taken on a new outreach program to home daycares this summer with the assistance of the Friends and Bi-State Literacy Council. Because of this new venture, we have decided not to offer our Family of Readers program this summer. If you are looking for good family read alouds – don’t hesitate to ask the staff for suggestions!

We have some really great programs lined up – some familiar faces returning and some brand new entertainers. Check out the Calendar of Events on the website for dates and times.

We hope you will join us for what looks like a SUPER summer. Don’t forget, we also offer summer reading programs for teens and adults!