SMART SUMMER READING PROGRAM

Here are some of the main elements:

• Reading Challenge to foster a child’s love of reading and help maintain their reading level over the summer. Participants receive a new book of their choice for every 10 days they read at least 20 minutes. 

• Educational programs at the library provided by professional animal handlers, magicians, scientists and musicians. These high-quality programs, also privately funded, are offered free to the public to help reduce the achievement gap students experience when they don't have summer learning opportunities. 

• Free lunch and snacks in high-need neighborhoods. Children who depend on free lunch programs during the school year are at risk of hunger during the summer months. Dallas Public Library offers free meals to children through the Texas Department of Agriculture's summer feeding program with nonprofit partner Equal Heart. 

• Hands-on learning activities. Students need 21st-century skills to prepare for college and career. SMART summer programming at Dallas Public Library includes science, math, art, reading and technology activities that help keep skills sharp while capturing the interest of children and teenagers. 

• Teen volunteer opportunities. Summer is the perfect time for teenagers to gain experience and give back to their communities through volunteerism. The public library is a great place for teenagers to give back. Reading programs, activities, and events make the library a hub of activity during the summer months. 

Private and corporate funding provides the incentive books and prizes, supplies for arts & crafts and science experiments, musical instruments, and pays for professional program providers who bring quality experiences like animal encounters, professional storytellers, science educators, and others to all Dallas Public Library locations.