Giddy Up, It’s Summer Reading Time

The days are warmer, the wildflowers are popping up, and school is out in just a few weeks — that summertime feeling is here.

Around this time each year, I get the itch to create our family’s summer bucket list. Nothing too fancy — I gather ideas from our family of five, add them all to one page, post it where everyone can see, and then we work through as many as we can throughout summer break.

No idea is too small. Crafts to try, friends to visit, foods to enjoy, and events to attend all make the list. But one tradition rarely gets forgotten.

Every summer, I pile my three daughters into the car, book tote in hand, and head to our nearest library branch to register for the summer reading program.

Their excitement is contagious as we grab our summer reading packet and a giant stack of books. The reading usually begins the moment we get home.

Over the years, our family has participated in several summer reading programs, but my favorite remains Douglas County Libraries.

Each year offers a new immersive theme and a packed schedule of events for all ages. Whether you’re a toddler, teen, or adult, there’s something for everyone.

Patrons can track reading goals through a physical booklet or online. Every minute read contributes to both personal goals and a larger community-wide goal that helps support local Douglas County organizations.

As both a loyal library patron and DCL volunteer, I can confidently say this is one of the most anticipated programs of the year.

Last year, more than 7,000 participants joined in.

From outdoor storytimes to themed educational events, there’s no shortage of ways to participate.

For 2026, saddle up for a little Western fun with this year’s theme:

“Howdy Partner, Let’s Read!”

Pre-register online or visit your nearest Douglas County Libraries branch on or after June 6th for the kickoff event.

Grab your reading packet, stack up your books, and get ready for one mighty fine summer of reading.