Summer is here, and Salem Public Library is inviting readers of all ages to grow their love of books through the 2026 Summer Reading Challenge. This year’s theme, “Plant a Seed, Read!”, encourages encourages kids, teens, and adults to keep reading, learning, and exploring all summer long.
Registration is officially open.
A Summer Program for the Whole Community
The Summer Reading Challenge is designed to help children continue building strong reading habits during the summer months, when time away from school can sometimes lead to the learning loss. But this program isn’t just for kids! Readers of every age are welcome to participate. Parents, grandparents, teens, educators, and community members can all join in, track their reading, complete activities, and celebrate the joy of books together.
How the Summer Reading Challenge Works
Participating in the 2026 Summer Reading Challenge is meant to be simple and accessible. Readers track the time they spend reading or listening to audiobooks, log their progress, and collect virtual badges.
To participate digitally, readers can log in through the ReadSquared online portal or by downloading the official ReadSquared mobile app. Due to a database update, all participants will need to create a new account for the 2026 program, even if they have participated in previous years.
For families who prefer a screen-free option, Salem Public Library also offers printable paper tracking sheets. These can be downloaded and printed from the library’s website and used to track reading milestones, activities, and upcoming events at home.
Reading Goals for Every Age
The challenge includes age-specific groups so readers can enjoy activities and goals that fit their stage of life.
Pre-K: Ages 0 to 5
For Salem’s youngest readers, the Pre-K challenge focuses on early literacy. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to read aloud to babies, toddlers, and preschoolers, helping build important language skills from the very beginning. Young participants can receive a printable certificate when they complete the challenge.
Kids: Ages 6 to 11
Elementary-aged readers can enjoy independent reading goals along with fun activity prompts designed to keep their minds active during summer break.
Teens: Ages 12 to 18
The teen reading challenge includes reading goals, review prompts, and community-focused activities created with middle and high school students in mind.
Adults (18+)
Summer reading isn’t just for students! Adults are invited to join the challenge, model positive reading habits, and earn rewards of their own.
Prizes, Badges, and Summer Fun
In addition to virtual badges, participants in the all categories can earn tickets for a grand prize drawing. The more readers log their hours and complete activities, the more chances they have to win prizes at the end of the summer.
Salem Public Library will also host a variety of free public events, workshops, and gatherings throughout the season. These include children’s activities, teen events, performances, and educational programs designed to bring the community together around reading and learning.
The main library branch is located at 585 Liberty St. SE, and residents can check the Salem Public Library website, Facebook page, or email newsletter for the latest updates.
Start Reading This Summer
Registration for “Plant a Seed, Read!” is completely free and open throughout the summer. Are you helping a child discover new stories, encouraging a teen to stay engaged, or finally making time for your own reading list? Salem Public Library’s Summer Reading Challenge is a wonderful way to learn and grow this season.
Grab a book, track your progress, and see where reading takes you this summer!
Registration for the "Plant a Seed, Read!" challenge is completely free and will remain open to all residents throughout the summer season.
Links for more information:
- Summer Reading Challenge - Salem Public Library
- Reading Programs Online Registration and Activity Tracker - ReadSquared