An open book, water bottle, camera, and coffee mug spread open on a sleeping bag. Text overlay: Summer Read 2024 Kickoff: Adventure Begins at Your Library!

Summer Reading is officially here!  

On June 18th, the Albany Public Library Howe Branch hosted a special Juneteenth-themed story time event to celebrate this important holiday and help kick off Adventure Begins at Your Library and the Summer Reading at New York Libraries Program. Summer Reading programs happen at approximately 1,100 libraries and branches across New York state and promote learning and literacy for students of all ages during the summer months.  

At this event, State Education Commissioner Betty Rosa engaged with an excited audience of pre-K students through Juneteenth-related books and stories, songs, and dancing. Along with story time, Commissioner Rosa and other presenters delivered brief remarks about the importance of the Summer Reading Program and encouraging students to explore and engage over the summer. Summer Reading programs can positively impact literacy and are a wonderful way for public libraries to collaborate with schools and school districts to benefit students in many ways.   

Children assembled for Summer Reading Kickoff story time at the Albany Public Library Howe Branch.

To learn more about how you can engage in the Summer Reading Program, please reach out to your local public library and visit the Summer Reading at New York Libraries Program website