PRESS RELEASE

Long Beach, CA – The Long Beach Public Library (LBPL) invites readers of all ages to "Level Up at the Library" with its annual Summer Reading Program, kicking off Saturday, June 14. Participants can enjoy a summer of adventure by reading, completing activities and attending special events and programs at all 12 LBPL locations. The program runs through Saturday, Aug. 9.

“Summer Reading is a fantastic opportunity for families to connect, learn and grow together,” said Mayor Rex Richardson. “This program reflects our dedication to education and community engagement, ensuring that residents of all ages have access to valuable learning experiences throughout the summer.”

Participants can earn incentives for every five books read for children ages 12 years and younger, or for every book read if they are 13 years or older. Children who read at least 10 books and teens or adults who read two books will be entered into a drawing for a grand prize. The more books read, the more chances participants will have to earn incentives.

“The Summer Reading Program is one of our most anticipated events of the year,” said Library Director Cathy De Leon. “We are thrilled to provide opportunities for our community to experience the joy of reading and participate in the variety of engaging programs we have planned.”

The program kicks off Saturday, June 14, with a special performance by The Alley Cats as they perform their popular Do Re Mi of Doo-Wop show at Billie Jean King Main Library (200 W Broadway)  at 11 a.m. Additional Summer Reading events will take place all summer long; residents are encouraged to visit LBPL’s events calendar for the latest. Residents can register for Summer Reading beginning June 14 and can sign up either in person at any Library location or online at longbeach.beanstack.org. Residents may register to participate in Summer Reading at any time throughout the program.

The Summer Reading Program is made possible in part by generous support from the Long Beach Public Library Foundation, Port of Long Beach and Friends of the Long Beach Public Library.

Throughout the summer, all LBPL locations will host other free, family-friendly events including magic shows, juggling performances, wildlife encounters and more. Teens and adults can also participate in the Library’s Maker Challenge, hosted by The Studio, where they can explore creative expression and earn exclusive prizes. More information is available at lbpl.org.

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, the 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 www.lbpl.org and follow @lbcitylibrary on Facebook, X and Instagram.