PRESS RELEASE

Above: Young participant and story time helper perform story time at Billie Jean King Main Library
as part of the 2023 Summer Reading Program. In addition to readin challenges, the program also features activities and  special events tailored for diverse age groups.

Long Beach, CA — Adventure awaits as the Long Beach Public Library (LBPL) gears up to kick off its annual Summer Reading Program, inviting readers of all ages to embark on literary adventures under the theme, Adventure Begins At Your Library. Spanning nine weeks from June 8 to August 10, the program offers a plethora of enriching summer activities, events and incentives across all 12 Library locations.

“The Summer Reading Program is not just about books – it's about igniting curiosity, fostering creativity and building connections that extend beyond the pages," said Mayor Rex Richardson. "As a community, Long Beach values the transformative power of education and enrichment.”

Through the Summer Reading Program, participants are encouraged to immerse themselves in the magic of reading, completing activities and indulging in special events tailored for diverse age groups. Children up to age 12 can earn incentives for every five books they read, while those above 13 years of age will be rewarded for each book completed. Those who achieve milestones of 20 books for children and three books for teens and adults become eligible for entry into a grand prize drawing, with additional commendations for surpassing targets.

The program commences with a vibrant performance by POWERHOUSE!!! Percussive Dance at the Billie Jean King Main Library on June 8, 11 a.m. Throughout the summer, a myriad of captivating performances, including magic shows, juggling, wildlife encounters, and more will grace each Library location. Teens and adults can unleash their creativity through the Library’s Maker Challenge, hosted by The Studio, with exclusive prizes awaiting innovative minds.

“Summer Reading is not just about preventing the 'summer slide' in academic skills; it's about fostering a love of books and reading,” said Director of Library Services Cathy De Leon. “Through our program, we aim to spark curiosity, fuel imagination, and nurture a sense of wonder that extends far beyond the pages of a book.”

The LBPL extends its gratitude to the Long Beach Public Library Foundation, The Friends of the Long Beach Public Library, and the Port of Long Beach for their generous contributions, enabling the provision of books, incentives and captivating performances by professional family entertainers and educators.

For a comprehensive list and to register for the Summer Reading Program, visit lbpl.org or call 562.570.7500.

About the City of Long Beach 
Long Beach is nestled along the Southern California coast and home to approximately 466,000 people. As an award-winning full-service charter city, Long Beach offers the amenities of a metropolitan city while maintaining a strong sense of individual and diverse neighborhoods, culture, and community. With a bustling downtown and over six miles of scenic beaches, Long Beach is a renowned tourist and business destination and home to the iconic Queen Mary, nationally recognized Aquarium of the Pacific and Long Beach Airport, award-winning Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center and world-class Port of Long Beach. 

For more information about the City of Long Beach, visit longbeach.gov/. Follow us on social to keep up with the latest news: Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube. For more information about the Long Beach Public Library, visit lbpl.org and on social at: Facebook, X and Instagram.