Fun ways to support summer reading

Monarch
Jul 7
3 min read

Updated: Jul 10

Summer reading programs can help motivate students of all ages to continue to read over the summer months, while also fostering a lifelong love of books. In Minnesota, where Monarch is based, many libraries and organizations offer enticing rewards—free books, entries in prize drawings, and more! Even though there are only two more months of summer, there is still time to participate in multiple options. Here’s a guide to some amazing programs across the state.

Various libraries in the state offer programs for children and teens.

1. Saint Paul Public Library – Summer Spark (All ages up to 18)

When: June 1–Aug 31

Kids and teens pick up a reading log and an initial free book.
Read in-library 15 minutes/day for instant rewards.
Complete goals to earn additional free books and entries in grand-prize drawings (teens could win an Instax camera!) (sppl.org)

2. Ramsey County Library (Kids & Teens)

When: Starting June 2

Track reading via Beanstack or paper logs.
Kids who finish are entered into drawings for State Fair tickets, Mall of America Sea Life passes, and Eagles Nest playground tickets.
Teens earn entries by submitting reviews and attending programs, with weekly and grand-prize drawings (ramseycounty.us).

3. Carver County Libraries (Kids 0–11, Teens 12–18)

When: Starting June 2

Complete five reading activities (via app or paper) to earn a free book.
Earn entries for prizes including Sea Life, State Fair, Twins games, and Barnes & Noble gift cards.
Teens can also enter a sticker-design contest—with potential to see their art featured in libraries! (https://www.carverlib.org/services/youth-services/summer-reading)

4. Northfield Public Library (All ages, including Adults)

When: Starting June 5

Kids: Weekly “Reader of the Week” winners receive a $5 gift card to The Blast and a yard sign.
Teens: Enter to win gift cards to local shops, crafts, snacks.
Adults: Grand prizes include State Parks passes, local swag, and book bundles.
Kickoff events include magic shows, concerts, pool parties, and bug workshops! (mynpl.org)

5. University of Minnesota Libraries – Summer Reading Bingo

When: May 5–Sept 21

All ages play “reading bingo” by checking off different book categories.
Each completed bingo line = one entry; max 12 entries.
Great for older teens and adults! (lib.umn.edu)

Other organizations have programs to help encourage summer reading.

1. Barnes & Noble Summer Reading (Grades 1–6)

Read eight books and fill out a journal to earn a free book from a curated list (https://www.barnesandnobleinc.com/our-stores-communities/summer-reading-program/)

2. Pizza Hut BOOK IT!

In-app or paper goal-setting yields a free personal pan pizza when achieved, available at participating locations. The BOOK IT! Program uses an app to help track books read. The app can be downloaded here (https://www.bookitprogram.com/) (minnesotaparent.com).

3. Chuck E. Cheese

Your child can earn 10 free play points with any food purchase. Just print off their calendar (https://www.chuckecheese.com/maple-grove-mn/activities-and-downloads/) and keep track of two weeks worth of reading. Their parent resource center (https://www.chuckecheese.com/maple-grove-mn/activities-and-downloads/) also has other rewards that can be downloaded to help encourage working toward other goals (e.g., handling big feelings, working hard, being a good sport, etc.).

Tips for Parents

Choose what motivates your child: prize drawings, guaranteed rewards, creative contests—select the format that suits them best.
Consider in-person vs. virtual: store-based programs like Barnes & Noble are great if you’re out running errands, while library programs may have richer local community engagement and events.
Engage early and often: Many programs run through late August—pick up reading logs, then plan storytimes, book reviews, craft days, and library visits into your summer calendar.

Why These Programs Matter

They help prevent summer learning loss by encouraging your student to keep reading.
They build reading confidence and habits over time, potentially helping your student become a lifelong reader.
They foster community connections, letting kids meet peers with shared interests and attend local events tied to their reading.

Getting Started

Mark your calendar—sign-up now to participate over this current summer.
Gather the tools—Beanstack app, bingo cards, printed logs, or reading journals for store-based programs.
Set realistic daily goals—even just 15–20 minutes a day works wonders.
Mix it up—combine several programs for double the fun (e.g., Carver County Library + BOOK IT!).
Celebrate milestones—display the log, throw a reading party, enjoy a prize, and build excitement.

By plugging into one (or more!) of these Minnesota summer reading programs, your kids get to enjoy new books, local events, and fun rewards—all while keeping learning alive. As an added bonus, these programs are FREE! What a wonderful opportunity for families to bond over stories, explore new authors, and share experiences under the summer sun.

Happy reading—and here's to a summer full of stories and smiles!

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