MANATEE COUNTY, FL (May 23, 2024) – The Manatee County Public Library System (MCPLS) is launching the 2024 Summer Learning Program with a focus on children and teens through age 17. "Adventure Begins at Your Library!" is the theme of the program, which will begin June 1, 2024. Each library branch will represent a different National Park, offering an immersive experience designed to promote literacy and learning.
“Research shows that when kids read for enjoyment during the summer, they maintain their reading comprehension from the school year and are better prepared for fall learning,” said Tammy Parrott, Manatee County Library Services Manager. “We look forward to the Summer Learning Program each year because we're passionate about books and reading.”
Highlights of the program include milestone book prizes, engaging events, the opportunity to become a Kid Librarian and a chance to win a Grand Prize. To join the adventure, simply sign up at your local Manatee Library starting June 1.
“Parents are a child’s best and first teacher,” said Manatee County District 2 Commissioner Amanda Ballard. “We are delighted to support them this summer as they instill a passion for reading in their children.”
Participants are encouraged to read for a minimum of 20 hours throughout the summer. For every 5 hours read, they will receive a new book and an entry into the Grand Prize drawing. In collaboration with the Bradenton Marauders, every child who completes 20 hours in their reading log will get a FREE ticket to a select Marauders game. The 2024 Summer Learning Program is made possible by the generous support of the Manatee Library Foundation.
For more information about this year’s Summer Learning Program, please contact Chris O’Hara at [email protected] or visit the webpage.