Carlsbad launches multi-tier youth reading challenges and names 'Stay True' for Carlsbad Reads Together 2026

Carlsbad City Library staff presented a package of youth reading initiatives and the 2026 Carlsbad Reads Together program at the March 25 board meeting.

"This is an ongoing self-directed initiative," Ally Goodwin said of 1000 Books Before Kindergarten (offered locally since January 2022), which uses Beanstack for tracking and gives small rewards at milestones. Goodwin explained that repeat readings count toward the total and that the program emphasizes sustained family engagement rather than quick completion.

Staff also described two programs launched in November 2025 for older readers: 50 Books Before Middle School Promotion (grades 6–8) and 100 Books Before High School Graduation (grades 9–12). "In the 5 months since we launched, we've had 78 students register for 50 books before middle school promotion and 54 register for 100 books before high school graduation," presenters reported; so far five middle-school readers have completed the 50-book milestone.

All programs can be tracked digitally via Beanstack or with paper logs; staff said the library provides starter books and themed rewards to motivate participants. Presenters noted accessibility measures such as offering paper logs for participants without technology access.

On Carlsbad Reads Together, co-chairs Emily Hardy and Ruben Valenzuela announced the systemwide community read for April 2026. The featured adult title is Stay True, a memoir by Hwasoo; companion titles for children and teens were selected with youth input. Hardy said the selection process included a community genre vote and committee vetting to ensure availability in Spanish and accessibility for a broad audience.

Planned events include bilingual story times, a story walk at Buena Vista Reservoir Park, zine-making and an author conversation with Hwasoo on April 23. The Friends of the Carlsbad Library were credited for sponsorship that supports hosting distinguished authors.

Trustees responded positively and encouraged school outreach to promote the programs. No votes or formal directives were taken.