With COVID-19, this summer is going to look very different from summers past. However, some things never change, and that’s our local libraries’ dedication to summer learning.
From online resources to virtual reading challenges, here’s how local libraries are stepping up to keep kids reading all summer long.
Boone County Public Library
bcpl.org
Boone County has a wealth of early childhood literacy resources available on their website. Click over to bcpl.org/ys for educational games, recommended reading lists, homeschool help and more! Boone County Library is also part of the Kentucky Libraries Unbound program, a free service that allows patrons to download e-books, e-audiobooks, digital magazines and videos to computers, smartphones, e-readers or tablets.
Campbell County Public Library
cc-pl.org
Do you have younger kids? This N. KY library offers an ambitious “1,000 Books Before Kindergarten” program. This is a fun and exciting way for the toddler/preschool crowd to get a leg up ahead of kindergarten. You can track your progress with the free 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten app on iTunes and Google Play. As with Boone County, Campbell County is part of the Kentucky Libraries Unbound eBook loan program. (Got older kids/teens? Be sure to check out Campbell County’s new Digital Escape Room challenges!)
Cincinnati Public Library
cincinnatilibrary.org
Cincinnati Public Library always has a next-level summer reading program, and this year is no different. This summer’s theme is “Discover Summer,” and it challenges kids to discover new worlds and experiences — all while reading! Additionally, the Cincinnati Public Library’s Overdrive program lets kids check out virtually any eBook. (Don’t have a library card? Cincinnati Public Library now offers a “downloadable only” card that gives you access to any of the library’s electronic materials!)
Kenton County Public Library
kentonlibrary.org
This spring, Kenton County took its classes online, offering a variety of crafts, story times and even yoga via Facebook Live. Through Overdrive, Kenton County offers virtually any children’s and young adult titles, and their Hoopla program lets patrons check out digital movies, music and audiobooks.
MidPointe Library
midpointelibrary.org
MidPointe Library System’s Summer Reading 2020 is called “Imagine Your Story,” and it’s a choose-your-own-adventure that kids of all ages will love. Starting June 1, patrons can download a Summer Reading 2020 Map from midpointelibrary.org/page/summer-reading; readers will create their own adventure between June 1 and July 31 to win a prize pack. Prizes will be available for pick-up August 1-31.
School’s out for the summer, but that doesn’t mean the learning has to stop. Our local libraries are stepping up with a variety of programs that will get kids excited to read their way through the summer — the world is just a click away!