Summer is the perfect time to help kids explore new worlds, discover exciting stories, and build a love for reading! From seasoned readers to those just starting out, these fun, engaging activities, events, and book recommendations are tailored to support school age kids at any reading level. Join us for an adventure in learning to become a lifelong reader!
Register, Track Reading Time & Earn Prizes
1. Register Learn how to get registered and see the full list of rules.
2. Get a Reading Tracker Download and print a School Age Kids Reading Tracker (.pdf) or pick one up at any Library location.
3. Read Spend time listening to audiobooks, reading aloud to someone, or having someone read to you.
4. Earn Prizes Prizes are earned at 1 hour, 5 hours, 10 hours, 15 hours, and 20 hours of reading. When you reach the hour markers, visit any Library location to claim your prize! Prizes are subject to change and while supplies last. Claim prizes until August 2, 2025.
5. Earn an extra Prize Ready to dig deeper? Complete 7 of 11 activity challenges to win a bonus prize. Dowload and print the Kids Activity Challenges (.pdf) or pick one up at any Library location.
6. Win a Gift Card Fill out the Kids Summer Reading feedback survey to be entered to win a gift card!
7. Grand Prize Drawing All readers who log time will be eligible for grand prizes at the end of the summer if all age groups in the Summer Reading Program together reach a total of 20 million minutes read. Winners will be contacted in August.
Reading Recommendations
Bedtime Little Dinosaur
Books to read to your dino-obsessed little one before bedtime.
Can You Dig It?
Children's nonfiction books about archaeology and paleontology. These books introduce kids to history through the study of fossils and ancient artifacts.
Digging for Dinosaurs
Dinosaurs are always a popular subject for young ones, but especially now with the new Dinosphere exhibit at the Children`s Musuem of Indianapolis opening. This list will pique the interest of budding paleontologists.
Dinosaurs ROAR!
I love dinosaurs and (maybe) so does your child! These are some of my favorite dinosaur read aloud books. I hope this list helps you find one (or ten) new ones to read before bedtime!
Dinosaurs and other Endangered Species
Enjoy some fiction and nonfiction children's books about some of their favorite extinct species and learn more about why other animals are endangered
Kids Explore Geology
What an amazing planet we live on! The books in this list will provide young scientists with vital information about how the Earth formed and help them explore geology through experiments, rock collecting, and more.
No Longer With Us: Kids Books All About Extinct Animals
Fiction and nonfiction books for kids who are interested in learning about prehistoric/extinct animals.
Rocks & Minerals
Rocks and minerals are all around us, especially in Indiana! Have you ever been fossil hunting at Turkey Run State Park, or geode hunting in Brown County? Find more about rocks and minerals and get into the summer reading spirit with these picks!
Time Travel Prehistoric Times Edition
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to come face to face with a dinosaur? Maybe your excitement would change depending on the dinosaur! These titles feature characters traveling to prehistoric eras -- to a time before written historical records, anywhere from 2.5 million years ago to around 5,600 years ago. On the flip side, some of these titles feature creatures being transported from their distant time period to modern day, with many a shenanigan or two to be had.
Summer Reading Workshops for School Age Kids
Animal Meet & Greets with Silly Safaris
1 hour | All Ages | Schedule for Animal Meet & Greets
Meet up to three animals at these casual drop-in sessions presented by Silly Safaris. Ask your question and take a picture with the critters.
Build It - Woodworking with Deeply Ingrained
1 hour | Ages 6-12 | Schedule and Register for Build It Wordworking
Let's get building! Participants learn basic woodworking skills - how to measure, mark, and use tools safely. Each participant starts with raw materials and leaves with a sense of accomplishment, pride, and a functional finished project! The July 19 session at College Avenue includes ASL interpretation.
Clay Creations with Ripple Mobile Arts
1 hour | Ages 6-12 | Schedule and Register for Clay Creations
In this hands-on workshop, kids will use clay to press leaves, flowers, and other found objects to create works of art. Learn about pottery as an ancient art form and how archaeologists study these objects to uncover the past. The July 15 session at Franklin Road includes ASL interpretation.
Junior Paleontologist with the Indiana State Museum
1 hour | Ages 6-12 | Schedule and Register for Junior Paleontologist
Be a paleontologist for a day and learn about Indiana's geologic history! Try your hand at finding, studying, and recreating fossils. The June 20 session at Lawrence includes ASL interpretation.
Robo Explorers
1 hour | Ages 6-12 | Schedule and Register for Robo Explorers
Dive into the world of robotics and learn how robots use sensors to interact with their environment. Through engaging activities, kids will discover the different types of sensors and how they enable robots to "see," "hear," and "feel." The June 12 session at Pike includes ASL interpretation.
Animal Shows with Silly Safaris
1 hour | All Ages | Schedule for Animal Shows
Go on a wild adventure with Silly Safaris in this sit-down 45-minute live animal show! You’ll have the chance to see animals up close and ask questions. Seating is first come, first served. Arrive early to grab a spot! The June 7 session at Haughville and the July 12 session at Glendale include ASL interpretation.
Geology Rocks!
1 hour | Ages 6-12 | Schedule and Register for Geology Rocks
Go back in time and explore prehistoric creatures through fossils! Create your very own fossil impression and discover the wonders of geology. This program is for ages 6-12. The June 27 session at Southport includes ASL interpretation.
Six ways to encourage reading at home.
Need some inspiration for reading outside of school? Look no further!
1. Create a dedicated reading space. Help your child find a quiet, cozy place to relax and focus on their reading.
2. Talk to your child about their reading. Show your interest by asking questions to motivate them to continue reading.
3. Let them explore their interests. Children are eager to read about topics they are already interested in.
4. Read regularly. Establish a daily routine of reading aloud to your child, take turns reading passages aloud together, or set aside time to read quietly together.
5. Lead by example. Let your child see you reading for enjoyment. Join our Adult Summer Reading Program and read alongside your child.
6. Variety is the spice of life. There are many kinds of books – joke books, audiobooks, graphic novels, and a whole lot more, so let them have their pick!