Sunshine, snacks, and stacks of books—that’s the East Sacramento way to spend summer. If you’re a resident or just passing through, you’ll find that 2025’s summer reading programs are more than just a way to keep kids busy. They’re a ticket to free books, local treats, and a calendar packed with fun for all ages. Here’s your witty, no-nonsense guide to making the most of summer reading in East Sacramento.
Sacramento Public Library: Your Summer Reading Headquarters
The Sacramento Public Library is rolling out its 2025 Summer Reading Program with all the bells and whistles. This isn’t just for kids—everyone from toddlers to adults can join in. Here’s what you need to know:
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Who Can Join? Absolutely everyone. Babies, kids, teens, adults—if you can read, listen, or even just enjoy a good story, you’re in.
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How It Works: Sign up online or at your local branch. Log your reading, whether it’s a picture book, a novel, or an audiobook. Listening to stories counts, so little ones and pre-readers can join the fun too.
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What’s in It for You? Points mean prizes. Read, complete challenges, and rack up points to earn free books, cool swag, and a challenge medal. If you hit the 25-book mark before the program ends, you’ll walk away with a commemorative medal—a shiny reminder of your literary stamina.
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Special Events: Expect magicians, musicians, and more. The library is hosting a colorful lineup of performers and activities, so check the schedule for something that sparks your interest.
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Dates to Remember: The program runs from early June through early August. Prizes and activities are available all summer long.
Pro tip: Pick up your game board at any branch or sign up online to start logging your reading minutes right away.
Crumbl Summer Reading Program: Cookies for Books
If you need extra motivation to read, how about a free Crumbl cookie? The Crumbl Summer Reading Program is simple and sweet:
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Read for at least 15 minutes a day during June.
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Track your reading on the special calendar your student brings home.
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Get a parent or guardian to initial each day.
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Complete 25 days of reading and bring the calendar to the Crumbl Citrus Heights location for a free chocolate chip cookie.
This program is a hit with kids who love a treat, and parents who want to keep summer learning on track.
Why Join a Summer Reading Program?
Summer reading isn’t just about filling the time between pool days. Here’s why these programs matter:
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Keeps Reading Skills Sharp: Kids who read over the summer are more likely to keep up (or even get ahead) when school starts again.
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Encourages Family Time: Reading together counts, whether it’s a bedtime story or an audiobook on a road trip.
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Builds Community: Library events bring neighbors together, and special challenges get everyone talking about their favorite books.
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Prizes and Perks: From free books to gift cards and cookies, there’s plenty of motivation to keep turning pages.
More Than Just Books: Activities and Events
Sacramento libraries know that reading is only part of the story. Here’s what else you’ll find:
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STEAM Activities: Science, technology, engineering, art, and math events keep curious minds busy. Think hands-on experiments, art projects, and interactive workshops.
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Performers and Shows: Magicians, musicians, and storytellers will be making appearances throughout the summer; please check your branch’s calendar for details.
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Community Heroes: Some programs invite local firefighters, police officers, and other community helpers to read stories and answer questions.
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Crafts and Kindness: Look for opportunities to make crafts, write get-well cards, or participate in community art projects.
For the Grown-Ups
Summer reading isn’t just for kids. Adults can join the fun by logging books, completing activities, and earning entries for end-of-summer prize drawings. Whether you’re into thrillers, biographies, or cookbooks, there’s a place for you in the program. Read five books and five activities for a special library prize, and every book logged is another shot at the grand prize.
How to Get Started
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Visit your local library branch or sign up online.
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Pick up a game board or log your progress digitally.
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Read, listen, and participate in as many activities as you like.
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Claim your prizes at the library or participating locations.
Tips for a Successful Summer of Reading
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Set a daily reading goal—even 15 minutes a day adds up.
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Mix it up: Try graphic novels, audiobooks, or magazines if you’re stuck in a reading rut.
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Bring a friend: Everything’s better with a buddy, especially library events.
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Check the calendar: Don’t miss out on special performers or themed days.
Ready, Set, Read!
East Sacramento’s summer reading programs are open, welcoming, and full of surprises. Whether you’re in it for the prizes, the cookies, or just the joy of a good story, there’s something for everyone this summer. Grab a book, mark your calendar, and let the reading adventures begin.
Sources: arapahoelibraries.org, ottomon.sanjuan.edu
Header Image Source: Johnny McClung on Unsplash
