DeKalb County Public Library launches 2024 summer reading program June 1, free prizes and events for all ages

DECATUR, GA–Today, DeKalb County Public Library (DCPL) announced the start of the 2024 Summer Reading Challenge, “Adventure Begins at Your Library.” The Summer Reading Challenge begins on June 1 and runs through July 31.

DCPL’s 23 branches will host more than 500 free programs this summer to encourage everyone to read and explore the library’s many offerings. Children, teens and adults can pre-register now using Beanstack, the library’s online reading challenge tracking platform and mobile app, at dekalblibrary.beanstack.org.

Adults also have the option of using a paper bingo card to track their progress. The cards will be available for pickup at all branches.

“While the Summer Reading Challenge is for everyone, keeping young people reading and learning during their summer vacation is especially important,” said Alison Weissinger, director, DeKalb County Public Library. “Research indicates that students can lose about two months of reading achievement during the summer. That’s why the Summer Reading Challenge provides incentives to help youth retain their reading skills in a fun, exciting way.”

Everyone who reaches challenge milestones can earn prizes or digital badges. Those who finish the challenge will be entered into drawings for books, book bags, gift cards, Kindles, Bluetooth speakers and more.

The library has two special Summer Reading kick-off events slated for children:

• Tiny Tot Adventures(ages 5 and under) on June 1 at 10 a.m. or 1 p.m. at Toco Hill-Avis G. Williams Library. The event will feature a puppet show by Nguzo Babies; face painting and glitter tattoos; and photos with the library’s mascot. Parents and caregivers can register to attend on the library’s website.
• Adventure Begins at Your Library Scavenger Hunt(ages 6-12 years) from June 1-15 at all DCPL branches. Those who complete the scavenger hunt will receive gifts to get them started on their reading journey.

In addition, many branches will host magic shows, animal encounters, crafts, puppet shows, and more.

All events are free and open to the public. Some events require registration. Find more information at dekalblibrary.org/summer-reading-2024.