Summer Reading Program
Promoting reading for all ages
The Summer Reading Program is a major focus for the fundraising done each year by the Friends. The theme of this summer’s 2026 Summer Reading Program was Unearth a Story, and it ran from June 15 – August 7, 2026. The Opening Party kicked things off with balloon twisting, temporary tattoos, and other activities. The program was run primarily through the Beanstack application, but people could also participate using a paper copy of the challenge that was available at the library. The program was open to children and adults, and prizes for kids, teens, and adults were available.
There were 1,005 registered participants this year - up more than 200 than 2025. The participants ranged from babies and pre-K to adult. People cumulatively logged approximately 4,890 days of reading this year.
The closing party was held on August 7. Free water ice was provided by Rita’s Warrington, and children and adults participated in indoor and outdoor activities. It was a great way to spend the afternoon and finish up the Summer Reading Challenge! And in the end, numerous small prizes were given away, 95 children received free books for contributing art to the Booker Art Gallery, and 6 lucky winners won the grand prize raffle drawing.
Join us again in 2027 for Summer Reading -Mystery Awaits at your Library.
As always, the 2026 Summer Reading Program featured many activities and programs for kids, adults, and families. Over the 8-week period, the library offered over 100 events including Summer Story Times, Book Bingo Programs, America 250 Celebrations, Craft Programs, Bike Helmet Giveaway, Movies, LEGO Clubs, STEM Programs, Book Clubs, Teen Events, Ukulele Lessons, Adult Nights Out, and a closing party featuring Rita's Water Ice.
Family Nights occurred every Thursday, and included Eyes of the Wild, Family Book Bingo, Dinoman Dinosaurs, Kit's Interactive Theater, Dinosaur Adventure Show, Dance Party Story Time, Marine Animal Show, and Washington's Crossing. These shows kept kids and adults entertained throughout the summer. 2,985 people of all ages participated in these programs and events!
The events, movies, and prizes were sponsored by the Friends of the Horsham Library.
