Summer reading program returns to Sioux Falls libraries
The program encourages reading all summer throughout Minnehaha County and Sioux Falls. This year, it'll run from May 23 through August 15.
McKennan Park project underway
'We are passionate about this program because not only do we love welcoming so many people into our branches, but we also are here to support reading during the summer, a great way to maintain literacy skills and combat 'summer slide.' Librarian Neliesha Daws said in a news release.
'Summer slide' refers to the loss of academic progress that can occur when children take time off from reading and learning during the summer months.
'A strong foundation in reading is crucial for a child's success in school and life,' Daws emphasizes. 'When children take the summer off from reading and learning, they can lose two to three years of academic growth by the time they reach middle school.'
This year's theme, 'Color Our World,' inspires a program that incorporates literacy, dance, art, and more into the world.
Siouxland Libraries has planned a variety of programs for all ages, including storytimes, dance classes, art and cartooning classes, a magician, sensory water play, ZooMobile, book walks, an art contest, an end-of-summer party, and a teen lock-in.
Participants in the Summer Reading Program can earn prizes for reaching their reading goals:
Children from birth to five years old have 30 challenges designed around five pillars of learning: reading, talking, writing, playing, and singing.
Kindergarten through 5th graders are challenged to read for 20 hours.
Teens are challenged to read for 30 hours, with a prize awarded every five hours.
Adult participants can complete seven challenges to receive a prize and be entered into a drawing to win a grand prize.
Information about the 2025 Summer Reading Program can be found at the Siouxland Libraries website.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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