Farm Memorial Library Launches Summer Reading Program with Innovative Book Coins

The Library Board Meeting held on July 17, 2025, in Pharr, Texas, focused on enhancing community engagement through innovative summer reading programs and initiatives aimed at combating the "summer slide" in children's literacy.

One of the key highlights was the introduction of a free kit available at the library for two weeks, designed to encourage reading among children. The library plans to launch a voluntary survey next year, allowing parents to submit their children's test scores at the end of the school year. This initiative aims to track the impact of the summer reading program on children's literacy by comparing scores from the end of the school year to those three months into the following school year.

The meeting also showcased the library's efforts to streamline communication with patrons. Instead of traditional booklets, the library has created a pamphlet containing essential information about summer reading activities, including a coloring page for children and bilingual content to cater to the community's diverse population.

In addition to these initiatives, the library continues to incentivize reading through a virtual currency system known as "book coins," which children can earn by participating in reading activities. This program not only encourages reading but also introduces children to basic financial concepts in a fun and engaging way.

The board expressed gratitude for the strong participation in the summer reading program, which included various activities such as author talks and themed events. The Friends of the Library group was also acknowledged for their ongoing support, with an invitation for community members to join and contribute to library initiatives.

The meeting concluded with a positive outlook on future programs and a commitment to further engage the community in literacy efforts. The next board meeting is scheduled for September, where further updates and developments will be discussed.