The first library summer reading program was in 1895
from the shelf #2
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I don’t know about you, but I spent most (if not all) of my childhood summers participating in summer reading challenges hosted by the public library. This was a highlight. This summer, I am doing a reading challenge with two friends to recreate that childhood magic of reading by the pool, logging books in paper pamphlets, and then turning them in for prizes. We might be logging our reading in a shared notes app, but the magic is still there.
The first library summer reading program was in 1895 — a librarian, Linda Eastman, compiled a list of ‘Best Books in the Library for Children.’ It was 1895, and she worked at the Cleveland Public Library. The list turned to a reading club, and then we were off to the races with summer reading challenges. The Carnegie Library of Pittsburg, to get more people reading, had pop-up library services in playgrounds, and Caroline Hewins, in Hartford, Connecticut, themed out her reading challenges. She brought speakers in, created storytimes, and brought us closer and closer to the reading challenges we know today.
So, you might be in the midst of your own summer reading challenge, but even if you are not, there is nothing better than lounging poolside, outside, beachside, or just inside with a book. Here are my rec’s to add to your summer reading:
Some old favorites you should check out
A Manual for Cleaning Women by Lucia Berlin If you are in a reading rut, I always think a short story collection will pull you out of it. It’s low commitment and enough to get you back in the groove. These short stories are biting, and the characters are vivid.
Sharks in the Time of Saviors by Kawai Strong Washburn Told through multiple perspectives, the story of a Hawaiian family after one of their children shows special abilities after falling into the ocean and being delivered back to the boat by a shark. A touch of magical realism, if that’s your thing, and a deep dive into family dynamics.
Torch by Cheryl Strayed This is the book Strayed wrote before her memoir Wild. I love it. It’s one of those books that I always reread. If you liked Wild, you’d like this — there are similar themes and similar plot lines, but it feels fresh and is another brilliant examination of grief.
What I’m currently reading
Spineless: The Science of Jellyfish and the Art of Growing a Backbone by Juli Berwald I’m a few chapters in, and I’m already deep into jellyfish information, and I think you should be too. I love a science book that meanders around with facts and personal narrative.
What’s on your summer reading list?
Laura- I appreciate this look into Linda's work. I'm learning something new every day. Hope you're well this week. Cheers, -Thalia
Okay when I say that I planned our ENTIRE summer around the summer reading program, I’m NOT exaggerating.
Free, fun, educational AND in the AC? Say less, I’m there!
So far we’ve done yoga, met recuse reptiles, danced and sang, watched movies, made crafts… and it’s only three weeks into the program.
Mark summer reading as something I am legitimately obsessed with!