Summer learning off to a fast start at San Jose public libraries

Five days into its Summer Learning program, the San Jose Public Library had already made progress toward its goal to surpass last year’s 10,000 total sign-ups and 4 million minutes read.

In the first five days of the free program, which kicked off on June 1, the library registered more than 5,000 people of all ages and reading levels to participate. In the first three days, the library saw nearly 72,500 reading minutes tracked. The Summer Learning program runs through July 31.

Even before the program started, pre-registration numbers increased by 26% in compared to last year. Library staff attributes the uptick to outreach and promotion begun in early May at events where they distributed more than 2,000 books, an increase of more than 80% over last year.

In addition to reading, library patrons can avail themselves of more than 200 Summer Learning events scheduled across all 25 branches. These free events are offered in multiple languages.

The Summer Learning program is designed to help combat the “summer slide” and prevent students from forgetting what they learned during the school year. Participants in different age groups who log the most reading minutes can win prizes ranging from video projectors, drones and tickets to a San Francisco Giants baseball game or a Bay FC women’s soccer match.

Register at any San Jose branch library or visit sjpl.org/summer.