To the Library: A Gentle Nudge Toward Summer Reading Routines
Let's ease into summer with a trip to the library.
Whether school just wrapped up or you're entering a new season of routines, a weekly visit to the library can be the perfect reset button. It's a screen-free ritual that encourages imagination, community connection, and learning for little ones - and their grownups, too.
The library has long been a magical place to let your imagination run wild.
A place where books come alive, quiet corners become kingdoms, and shelves are lined with possibility. For littles, it's a playground of storytelling and socialization. For grownups, it's a resource-rich environment that offers more than just books: Storytime, play corners, puppet shows, and even opportunities like the StoryWalk (each summer at the Hollidaysburg Library and many other libraries nationwide!).
If you've never made the library part of your weeky rhythm, now is a great time to start.
Let your little one pick a few books that feel exciting and fresh - and consider joining in with your own book stack. We love the idea of grownups choosing a book alongside their child to model reading habits at home.
A gentle reminder from a former educator
As a former elementary school teacher and an educator in supplemental education, here's a tip I often share: Don't worry so much about the "right" reading level. There's so much power in a mix of "Below Level, On Level, and Above Level Books".
- If the book feels easy, it's great practice for reading aloud and building fluency.
- If it's on level, your child can build vocabulary and comprehension.
- If it's above level, you can read it together - modeling reading behaviors while sharing something special. (Like changing your voice for each character in the book!)
Let curiosity lead. The most important thing is that your little one is excited about what they're reading.
Looking for a way to keep track of summer reads?
We love this Kid's Reading Journal for young readers to reflect and log their favorite books: For The Love of Books: Kids Reading Journal
And this version for grownups is perfect for caregivers who want to remember what they read too: For The Love of Books: Reading Journal
Ready to get started?
Grab your free Summer Bucket List and make "To The Library" your first adventure of the season.
