FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 28, 2024

The Metropolitan Library System's Summer Reading program returns from June 1 to July 31. This annual event, with a tradition spanning over ninety years, celebrates the power of reading under the theme "Adventure Begins at your Library." 

Summer Reading serves as a tool to combat the "Summer Slide," a reference to a decline in academic skills some students experience during the break from school. Research has shown that students may be able to avoid the slump by reading 20 minutes a day. 

Beanstack, a website and app, is one of the ways participants can join the program. It offers a seamless experience for both seasoned attendees and newcomers. Participants can create an account and link their library card to be eligible for prize drawings. Paper reading logs are also available at each library. 

Participants accrue points by logging reading minutes and completing activities, unlocking badges and prizes, including books and incentives. Registrants receive a coupon for a short stack at IHOP while supplies last, with additional prizes earned upon reaching 600 points, and entries for exclusive prize drawings. 

The Summer Reading program also fosters community engagement through the Read it Forward initiative. If the community reaches its goal of 12 million points, the Latino Community Development Agency will receive a generous book donation. 

Neighborhood Arts also returns June 1, showcasing diverse performances in music, dance, drama and more. Sponsored by the Arts Council of OKC, National Endowment for the Arts, and Oklahoma Arts Council, it promotes accessible arts education. Featured acts include OKC Improv, Lucas Ross, Oklahoma Violin Ensemble, and more. Explore the full schedule at metrolibrary.org/neighborhoodarts. 

Summer Reading activities cater to all ages, with options available for infants to adults across the library system's 19 locations. More information can be found at metrolibrary.org/summerreading. 

About Metropolitan Library System: The Metropolitan Library System serves Oklahoma County’s 800,000 residents across 19 locations, receiving over 5.4 million visits annually and facilitating more than 10 million checkouts. Explore digital resources 24/7 at metrolibrary.org.