Public library Summer Reading Program in full swing
SUBMITTED PHOTO
Children attend a Maryville Public Library Storytime event. Because attendance increases significantly during the summer, the reading sessions are now split into two days to accommodate the crowd more comfortably. Storytime is held every Tuesday and Wednesday at 9:45 a.m. during June and July.
MARYVILLE, Mo. — The Maryville Public Library’s annual Summer Reading Program returned June 1 with the 2025 theme, “Adventure Begins at Your Library.”
According to a news release from the library, this free program is open to all ages and encourages reading and engagement throughout the summer, with chances to earn prizes and attend special events through July 31. In the first few days following the signups which began May 31, more than 270 learners from birth to adult have signed up for the program.
“I think we are off to a great start to our Summer Reading Program,” Youth Services Coordinator Elizabeth Argo said in a statement. “I hope we continue to have more kids and adults come in and make reading a part of their summer adventures. Audiobooks for the whole family are fantastic on summer road trips and can count towards everyone’s reading goals.”
How it works
Participants may sign up anytime and begin immediately logging their reading for the program which runs June 1 – July 31. Readers may register in person at the library, 509 N. Main St., or online at maryvillepubliclibrary.lib.mo.us.
A current Maryville Public Library card is required to participate.
Program highlights
Kids and teens entering grades 1–12 in fall 2025
These participants are encouraged to read 20 minutes per day and track their progress using a log sheet available at the library, noted the release. Readers earn a prize for every 10 days of reading (up to five prizes). All reading for the program can be logged between June 1 and July 31. Start dates for logging will vary based on when participants sign up. Prizes must be claimed by Aug. 15. Prizes are sponsored by the Maryville Pride Lions, with additional donations from Sonic, Northwest Missouri State University and The Hangar Entertainment Center.
1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program (Nodaway County children birth to kindergarten entry)
Track how many books are read between June 1 and July 31. Special summer-only prizes will be awarded for reading 25 and 50 books. Log books are available at the front desk. This program includes children starting kindergarten in fall 2025.
Adults (Ages 18+)
Adult cardholders — including parents — can earn a prize entry for every book read, plus a guaranteed prize for completing four books or reading to a child for 20 minutes a day over 20 days. Registration opened June 1 at the library desk.
For details, call 660-582-5281 or email [email protected].
