The school year is wrapping up but that doesn’t mean learning has to stop. Maricopa County’s summer reading program kicks off this week.
"In the summer kids can often experience a learning loss. Participating in the summer reading program is one way to combat that summer slide," said Samantha Mears, communications administrator for the Maricopa County Library District. “Studies also show that reading 20 minutes a day helps kids not fall behind their peers. And it also creates a habit of reading that kids will take with them and hopefully become lifelong learners.”
65 libraries across the county are participating in Maricopa County Reads. The program runs June 1 through Aug. 1. While the program is geared toward kids, it's open to all ages and Mears said whole families are encouraged to take part.
Participants earn a point for each minute spent reading a physical book or electronic book or listening to an audiobook.
“You can also earn points by attending events at your library. We also have some fun online events that will give you secret codes for some bonus points," Mears said.
Prizes for points earned include coupons for free pizza, tickets to see the Phoenix Mercury or a free book.
Mears said the goal is to get 75,000 participants this year. Participants can sign up online at MaricopaCountyReads.org for English speakers or CondadoDeMaricopaLee.org for Spanish speakers.
