May 18, 2024, CLEVELAND, OH: The Cleveland Public Library is excited to announce the launch of Cleveland READS, its annual summer reading challenge, inviting families to “Celebrate our ABCs – Authenticity, Bravery, Creativity.” The eight-week summer reading challenge is for scholars ages 0-18 or in grades 0-12 from June 10 to Aug. 2.
“Cleveland READS encourages children to explore the joy of reading beyond the classroom, helping to prevent the ‘summer slide” and maintain critical skills,” said Jacqueline Lamb, Director of Youth and Family Engagement. “This summer, families can join us at their local branch to receive free books, earn points, and win exciting prizes.”
The summer reading challenge kicked off with a grand celebration on Friday, May 17, at the Children’s Museum of Cleveland. The event featured free books, prizes, music, and entertainment for the whole family as well as complimentary admission to the museum.
“Cleveland READS offers more than just books — it’s a holistic experience with diverse activities at every branch, including story times, arts and crafts, and more,” said Erica Marks, Senior Director of Outreach & Programming Services. “We’re also hosting three free block parties at our Woodland, Carnegie West, and Hough campuses to ensure readers maintain their enthusiasm all summer long.”
Children can log their activities and track their progress online for chances to win exciting prizes, including gift cards and gaming systems.
Registration is now open. To register or for more information about in-person programs, visit ClevelandReads.com.
About Cleveland Public Library
Founded in 1869, Cleveland Public Library serves the residents of Cleveland through its network of 27 neighborhood branches, the Main Library downtown, Public Administration Library at City Hall, homebound delivery services, and mobile services to daycare and senior centers. From a collection of 10.5 million items, the Library has traditionally circulated nearly 6 million items a year to its 300,000 registered borrowers and to 45 other CLEVNET-member libraries in 12 counties across Northeast Ohio. Cleveland Public Library is home to the Ohio Center for the Book and the Ohio Library for the Blind and Print Disabled, serving all 88 counties in the state of Ohio. For more information, visit cpl.org.