As temperatures soar in Arizona, local libraries and bookstores are offering cool opportunities for residents to dive into summer reading. The Maricopa County Library District (MCLD) and several independent bookstores have launched engaging programs to encourage reading among community members of all ages.
Maricopa County Library District’s ‘Unearth A Story’
The Maricopa County Library District is kicking off its ‘Unearth a Story’ Summer Reading Program, available online and at participating libraries. This program, which does not require a library card, encourages participants to read for 20 minutes a day, aiming for a total of 1,000 points by July 20. Participants can earn points not only by reading but also by attending library events and listening to audiobooks. Prizes include personal pizza coupons, Arizona State Parks passes, and Phoenix Mercury tickets.
Changing Hands’ Reading Guild
Changing Hands Bookstore introduces its Reading Guild, a program that combines reading challenges with collectible realm cards designed by local artist Ash Soriano. Readers can earn cards by exploring different genres, with the ultimate goal of completing the Guild Map and earning the ‘Hall of Master Readers’ card.
Stacks Book Club Summer Reading Journal
In southern Arizona, Stacks Book Club offers a Summer Reading Journal for children. Participants complete weekly journal entries about books they read and can earn rewards from the prize chest. The program is free and available at both the Oro Valley and Tucson locations.
Jay’s Conversations Summer Reading Program
Jay’s Conversations, a new bookstore in Tempe, is hosting a community-focused summer reading program. Participants log their reading time in-store, and the top readers will receive prizes at the end of the summer. All participants are invited to a celebratory pizza party.
These programs reflect a commitment to fostering a love of reading and community engagement across Arizona. For more details, visit the respective websites of the Maricopa County Library District, Changing Hands, Stacks Book Club, and Jay’s Conversations.
Original reporting: 12News / KPNX (Phoenix) — read the source article.
