Every other Tuesday library professional from around Colorado are gathering to brainstorm, solve challenges and share ideas and resources about summer reading. You can find information on how to join us for the next drop in chat at Librarieslearn.org
There has been such a wealth of experience and creativity, I wanted to share some ideas and trends that have come out of our discussions for those who haven’t been able to join. At the bottom, you will find two questions we would love to gather feedback around that came up this month.
Program ideas
Gardening projects, summer of pride, connecting with colors in nature, rainbows, science of light and color, sun catchers, different found objects, chalk art, sand mandalas, Bad Art, social emotional learning by using different colors for feelings, Michael Albert- cereal box art, sip and paint, art from around the world, and music from around the world.
Log or tracking ideas
- Read for beads https://kidshopeusa.org/read-and-bead/
- Passports
- Bingo Cards
- CSLP Log
- Paint pallet with a different color for each week of summer
Prize ideas
- Raffles for things like gift cards (some have these donated by local businesses), gaming systems, and bikes. This year with art on the mind many are thinking about art classes or experiences.
- Books and book series
- T-shirts
- Tortilla blankets for teens
- Pool parties
- Bag of books and toys for babies
- Foam party for those with a certain number of hours or completion
- Vote toward community or library betterment
Marketing trends
School newsletters, newspaper ads, local community boards, invitations to local homes, outreach to schools or community events. Have a table in the front of your library staffed or with a QR code to sign up or co-design programs or prizes with your patrons
Share your impact
Why not create a video montage with photos from all the programs and activities all summer? You could also have a finale award ceremony to celebrate achievements and distribute prizes.
Questions for you!
Do you have ideas of experiences that could be tracked instead of reading minutes or books read that are directly related to building literacy skills like phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, comprehension, vocabulary, language concepts and communication for elementary students?
Have you used a performer that you like for a baby program?
Want more summer reading ideas? Listen to our podcast, https://sunshineandstories.buzzsprout.com/
Have a topic you want to discuss with others or a question about anything above? Don’t hesitate to reach out Compton_K@cde.state.co.us
- Summer Drop in Chat Notes - October 10, 2024
- Highlighting Colorado Public Libraries at ALSC - September 10, 2024