What is the best gift you can give your child? The gift of reading and critical thinking, of course.
When children take a break from school, their reading skills take a dip as well. This is where summer readings programs come in. At the library, we provide a wide assortment of books, engaging activities, as well as encouragement so that children not only maintain their reading skills but actually improve them. In the summer, reading isn’t about school work. Reading is about exploring different worlds, discovering new interests, and developing a love for storytelling. It is about having fun, no longer a chore, but something children actually want to do.
No matter what a child’s background, the Charles Town Library provides access to great books and learning opportunities for everyone. We provide opportunities for every child. Coming weekly to the library throughout the summer is an effective way to stop any summer sliding and to close any reading gaps, and to support the success of your child. Every week there is a different reason to come to the library, whether it is for story time, creative activities, or a book club—these interactive activities can help make reading fun and engaging.
The Charles Town Library is once again excited to launch a summer reading program for all ages! Challenges begin June 2nd, and will extend through August 2nd.
Parents of children ages 0-5 are encouraged to register for our 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten initiative. Parents record each book read and when certain benchmarks are hit, the library offers prizes.
Readers aged 6-12 should register for the Color Our World challenge. Children track their minutes using the Beanstack app and receive prizes for achieving set reading time goals, with an end-goal of 300 minutes.
Those ages 13-18 are encouraged to register for the Color Our World Teen challenge. Teens track their minutes using the Beanstack app and receive prizes for achieving set reading time goals, with an end-goal of 600 minutes.
Adults over 18 can register for the Welcome Summer adult reading challenge. Participants track the number of books read over the summer for a tickets for drawings of great prizes!
In the age of artificial intelligence, reading is more important than ever. Reading helps us to think critically, stay informed, and engage deeply with ideas. Although AI can generate information quickly, well-developed reading skills allows us to analyze, question, and interpret information rather than accepting it at face value.
Books, articles, and other written materials expose us to diverse perspectives, helping to develop independent thought and creativity—skills that AI cannot replicate. Reading also strengthens comprehension and communication, enabling children to better express their own ideas and engage in meaningful discussions.