These Charlotte-area summer reading programs offer fun for kids, teens and adults
Summer vacation can be a dream for kids, but parents and guardians can be left scrambling to find ways to keep kids entertained without breaking the bank, especially when weather takes outside fun off the table.
Reading programs at public libraries, which often include events and prizes, can be wallet-friendly options that also help students avoid summer learning loss.
And they’re not just for elementary and middle school-age children — many area libraries also have summer reading programs for toddlers, teens and adults.
Here are some summer reading programs in and around Charlotte to check out for summer 2023:
Cabarrus County Library
What to know: Cabarrus County Library’s 2023 summer reading program runs through Aug. 31 and is open to readers of all ages. The year’s theme is “All Together Now,” and libraries will also host events throughout the summer.
How to register: Sign up for summer reading by downloading the Beanstack app or visiting cabarruscounty.beanstack.org/reader365. You can also get a paper log or assistance signing up via Beanstack at library branches.
Catawba County Library
What to know: Catawba County Library’s summer reading challenge lets readers earn badges and compete for prizes. The library system will also host events for kids, teens and adults throughout the summer.
How to register: Register for Catawba County’s program via the Beanstack app or at catawbacountync.beanstack.org/reader365.
Charlotte Mecklenburg Library
What to know: Charlotte Mecklenburg Library’s Summer Break Challenge runs through July 31 and is open to kids, teens and adults. Participants can track their reading to earn points that get them Wendy’s coupons, stickers and the chance to win Charlotte FC tickets. Library locations across the county will also host summer reading events throughout the summer.
How to register: To sign up for the Summer Break Challenge, visit cmlibrary.beanstack.org/reader365 or download the Beanstack app.
Gaston County Public Library
What to know: Gaston County Public Library’s summer reading program, “All Together Now,” is open to readers of all ages and runs from June 3 to Aug. 12. Requirements and prizes vary by age group. The library will also host educational events throughout the summer.
How to register: You can pick up paper reading logs at Gaston County Public Library branches. Kids can also track their reading at gastonlibrary.readsquared.com. Teens and adults can use the library’s Goodreads group at goodreads.com/group/show/126078-gaston-library.
Iredell County Public Library
What to know: Iredell County Public Library’s 2023 summer reading program also includes “free performances and events, Take & Make activity bags for all ages (and) age appropriate activity booklets.” Reading logs are due by mid-August in order to be considered for the grand prize drawing.
How to register: To register online, download the Beanstack app or visit beanstack.com. Paper reading logs can also be picked up at library branches.
Lincoln County Public Library
What to know: Lincoln County Public Library will host its “Summer Learning Kickoff Party” from 6 to 8 p.m. June 13. The library also offers the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program, which encourages parents and guardians to read aloud to their babies and preschool-age children.
How to register: To participate in the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program, visit a library branch to register and track your family’s reading at lincolncounty.readsquared.com.
Union County Library
What to know: Registration is open for Union County Library’s 2023 summer reading program. Different levels and prizes are available for different age groups. Library branches will also host events for readers of all ages throughout the summer.
How to register: Register online for Union County’s summer reading program and track reading at ucplnc.readsquared.com.
