New Orleans Library Launches Summer Reading Challenge
Free Books, Events, and Prizes Await Readers of All Ages
The New Orleans Public Library’s annual Summer Fun & Reading Challenge is underway, inviting individuals of every age to participate in a season of literary exploration and community engagement. The program encourages reading and library involvement with incentives and a wealth of free activities.
Incentives and Rewards
New participants receive an immediate reward: children can select a free book, while adults may choose a deck of cards or a New Orleans Public Library mug. Teens have the option of a book or an adult prize. Completing the challenge—reading 800 minutes and participating in library activities—unlocks a canvas tote bag designed by local artist Sean Clark.
A Summer Filled with Free Events
The library’s summer calendar is brimming with free events for all ages. On June 11th, the East New Orleans Regional Library and Alvar Library will host Young Alligators and Louisiana Wildlife Introduction
, offering a hands-on experience with Louisiana’s fauna for children aged 6-12. Also on June 11th, Mama SaBa will share stories from around the globe at the Smith Library, geared towards ages 6 and up.
Teens can participate in a two-day stop-motion animation workshop with the New Orleans Video Access Center at the Algiers Regional Library, requiring registration at events.nolalibrary.org. Adults can enjoy Hooping for Health and Wellness
with Hey Now Hooping, also at the Algiers Regional Library.
Creative Workshops and Storytelling
June 12th brings a creative mending workshop led by Ayanna at the Main Library, teaching teens how to repair clothing sustainably. Younger children (ages 9-12) can create upcycled tambourines at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Library. The Norman Mayer Library will screen the classic horror film Little Shop of Horrors
(1960) as part of its House of Schlock
series.
According to the American Library Association, public library usage has increased by 18% since 2019, demonstrating a renewed appreciation for these community hubs (ALA, 2024).
Early Literacy and Refreshments
On June 13th, the Central City Library will host Fun at the Beach: An Early Literacy Adventure
for children ages 2-5, focusing on developing essential literacy skills. The East New Orleans Regional Library will offer a seasonal mocktail-making class with Barcelo Gardens on June 14th.
For a complete schedule of events and more information about the Summer Fun & Reading Challenge, visit summerfun.nolalibrary.org or nolalibrary.org.
