This year’s theme is “Unearth a Story,” an adventure theme sure to please all ages!  Children and teens will receive a reading game board to keep track of their reading from May 30-July 30, 2026. Since kids read at different levels, we don’t require a certain number of books to complete the program, because that can be overwhelming or intimidating for some readers. We want to encourage kids to read most days during the summer, for as long as works best for them. 

When kids pick up their reading game board, they simply check off a box for every day that they read. After twenty days, kids can come to the library to redeem a free book! Those readers who complete the program (by reading 40 days this summer) will receive a prize pack, a ticket to our Summer Finale, and an entry ticket for the Grand Prize Drawings. We have a vast assortment of prizes this year, including LEGOS, a mini fridge, Melissa and Doug toys, and more!

The fun officially begins with a dinosaur adventure-themed kickoff party at the library on Saturday, May 30, from 10am -1pm. Families can pick up their reading game boards and enjoy free activities such as a real photo booth, games, crafts, and dinosaurs!   Adults will also enjoy the fun with a reading game board just for them!

The library’s summer adventure also offers a variety of free activities and special events throughout the summer, including story times for all ages, interactive play areas, a LEGO club, and crafts. The Butterfly Experience, Dinosaur Academy, Exotic Animals, Fossil Fest, and Bubble Blast are just a few of the special events planned. These events can be a great way to get kids excited about reading and learning and to connect with other families in the community. A full list of events is available on the library’s online calendar at www.pekinpubliclibrary.org.

“These programs are a great way to keep kids engaged and excited about reading during the summer months,” said Catrina Klassen, the Pekin Public Library’s Youth Services Librarian. “They provide a fun and interactive way for children to develop their literacy skills and discover new books and authors.”

In addition to providing a fun and engaging pastime, summer reading programs have been shown to benefit children’s academic success. Studies have shown that children participating in such programs are more likely to maintain their reading skills over the summer and perform better academically when they return to school in the fall.

“Summer reading programs are a win-win for parents and kids,” said Klassen. “They provide a fun and enriching activity for children during the summer months and help prepare them for a successful academic year ahead.”  Klassen noted that all children, ages birth to 18, can get a free library card if they live in the Pekin area.

So, if you’re looking to keep your kids engaged and learning this summer, consider making the Pekin Public Library a regular stop! By participating in our free summer reading program and making reading a part of your child’s daily routine, you can help your child maintain their reading skills over the summer and prepare them for a successful academic year. It’s a great way to encourage a love of books and learning, and to make the most of the summer months!