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Monterey County Free Libraries launch summer reading, free-book and lunch programs; signups up after school outreach
Summary
The Monterey County Free Libraries’ summer reading program runs June 1–July 31 with free books for registrants, performers and workshops; library staff report sign-ups rose by more than 1,000 after school partnerships and bookmobile outreach.
Allison Day of the Monterey County Free Library outlined the system’s summer reading program during the county news briefing on June 10, saying the program runs June 1–July 31 and that participants who sign up at any branch or online receive a free book and access to branch events.
"Our theme this year is plant a seed read," Day said, describing themed reading logs and challenge cards for tracking reading minutes and activities. She emphasized that listening to audiobooks and being read to count as reading, and that materials are available in Spanish and in large-print editions.
Day described prizes (farm-animal plushies, chia pets, art kits, a branded 'bok choy cat' item and reusable cutlery), performers (magicians, Puppet Art Theater, Jungle James, Sterling Bubblesmith) and teen/adult workshops that require registration. The County operates 16 library locations and two bookmobiles (North County and South County), Day said.
The library also runs a 'lunch at the library' program providing meals to those 18 and under at most branches.
Day said targeted outreach with schools in late May — including visits to Aroma School, Ohlone School (with the Pajaro branch), Lockwood School, Parkfield and a field trip arrangement for Big Sur students — boosted sign-ups by over 1,000 students.
Resources and sign-up links are available on the County library website and the Beanstack platform; Day encouraged community members of all ages to participate.
