Summer Reading Program 2026 - Unearth A Story | June 5 - August 1, 2026
2026 Summer Reading Bookmark Contest
Enter our 2026 Summer Reading Bookmark Contest by designing a bookmark that invites readers to dig deep into the world of stories! Our theme this summer is "Unearth a Story" and is all about discovering the amzing tales waiting to be found in books whether they're about dinosaurs, ancient civilizations, real-life history, science, or imaginary worlds. View and print the entry form below or pick one up at the library beginning April 1, 2026. Winners will be chosen from four different age groups. Winning bookmarks will be printed and available at the library this summer.
A History of the Summer Reading Program
Summer reading programs began in the 1890s as a way to encourage school children, particularly those not needed for farm work, to read during their summer vacation, use the library and develop the habit of reading. The Juniata County Library has adopted the themes set by the Collaborative Summer Library Program (CSLP).
Numerous studies have shown that reading over the summer prevents summer reading loss, also referred to as the “summer slide.” Summer reading loss is cumulative. Children don’t “catch up” in the fall because the other children are moving ahead with their skills. By the end of 6th grade, children who lose reading skills over the summer are two years behind their classmates. The benefits to readers in a summer reading program include:
- Encouragement that reading becomes a lifelong habit
- Reluctant readers can be drawn in by the activities
- Reading over the summer helps children keep their skills up
- The program can generate interest in the library and books
The Juniata County Library is offering our local children an opportunity to make new friends and win prizes while maintaining and enhancing their reading skills!
Need a library card? No problem! You can register here. In addition to checking out physical materials, it gives you digital access to free eBooks, eAudiobooks, and more!
Summer Reading funding is provided by the United Way of Mifflin Juniata and by the Friends of the Library. Become a Friend today!