Summer Reading

With school out and summer in full swing, libraries across the country have started their summer reading club. In 1987, ten Minnesota Regional Library System workers started The Collaborative Summer Library Program (CSLP), a summer reading program for children. They chose themes and created artwork that other public libraries in the region could utilize. This grassroots movement spread throughout the country. Today, most libraries have a reading program to help keep children reading through the summer. This year's theme is One World Many Stories.

The U.S. Secretary of Education (Arne Duncan) stated in 2009 that summer learning loss is “devastating.” By joining a local library's summer reading program, learning loss can help be prevented. Many studies have shown that if I child continues reading they will have better writing skills and a larger vocabulary. 

No matter what the medium, reading is important, but I think a good old fashioned book is vital in a young person’s life. It creates a tactile experience and deepens the child’s connection to the written word. Reading helps develop critical thinking and problem solving skills. It teaches children responsibility and how to resolve conflict. It also allows children to dream, to use their imagination, and to travel to different places and other cultures in their minds. 

Although e-books and the internet can also foster better reading skills, it takes away the magic of reading a “real” book. Unfortunately, readily available access to books may become more difficult. I was just contacted by an owner of a bookstore. He has been calling people to bring attention to the fact that that there are still privately owned bookstores, and the importance of reading. Years ago, small bookstores were upset with the opening of chain bookstores such as Borders Books and Music and Barnes and Noble. Now, these chain stores are also being hurt by people turning to the internet to read and buy books.

Please encourage your child to read, not just during the school year, but also in the summer when important learning skills can be lost. And don’t forget to support your local bookstores and libraries!