The North Olympic Library System invites people of all ages to take part in the Summer Reading Program, June 13 to August 23. From babies to adults, everyone in Clallam County is encouraged to join in the fun, track their reading and enjoy free events all summer long.
Sign up for the reading challenge at any NOLS branch, on the Bookmobile, or online at NOLS.org/SRP and receive a free book to keep. Participants can read, listen to audiobooks, or be read to for 30 days to earn a T-shirt or tote bag designed by local artist Kaisa Lemley and enter the grand prize drawing. Read for 60 days to get a second entry into the drawing. Multiple winners, selected at random, can choose a $100 gift card to a local bookstore or restaurant, or a LEGO set.
Why Summer Reading Matters
Summer reading is beneficial at any age, but it’s especially important for young people. Kids who don’t read during the summer can lose up to a third of what they learned in the previous school year. The NOLS Summer Reading Program offers families a fun way to keep kids engaged, prevent the “summer slide” of learning loss and nurture a lifelong love of reading.
Free Events for All Ages
This year’s theme, “Level Up at Your Library,” celebrates the power of play as a pathway to learning, creativity and community connection. Libraries are not just places for information, they are also hubs for exploration and fun. Whether you’re solving challenges, learning new skills, or discovering the joy of reading, there’s something for everyone this summer at NOLS.
Events for kids include “Explore Space” with the Pacific Science Center, “Gravity Catastrophe” with Alex Zerbe, hands-on activities at Discovery Club, Storytime and more. Tweens and teens can take part in workshops for art, science and writing, and catch a movie or play in game tournaments. Adults can enjoy the “Olympic Outdoors” history exhibit, a harp concert, writing workshops with award-winning authors, and presentations about rock climbing, backyard birds, conquering clutter and other topics. All ages can explore tidepools with Feiro Marine Life Center and celebrate summer with professional hula hoop artist Hillia Hula. Check NOLS.org/events for the full list of free events at your local branch.
The Summer Reading Program is generously supported by local Friends of the Library groups. For more information, visit NOLS.org, call 360-417-8500, or email discover@nols.org.
