The St. Johns County Public Library System (SJCPLS) is inviting families across Northeast Florida to celebrate reading, learning, and American history through its 2026 Summer Reading Program, “Stars, Stripes, and Stories,” running from May 31 through July 25.
Designed to keep children engaged during summer break while promoting literacy and educational growth, the nine-week program offers free reading logs, prize incentives, and more than 100 educational and family-friendly events at library branches throughout St. Johns County. Participants can pick up free reading logs at any of the six SJCPLS branches or the library system’s bookmobile. Readers earn prizes for every five days of reading they track, encouraging consistent reading habits throughout the summer months.
Library officials say the program serves as both a fun community initiative and an important tool for combating the “summer slide,” the learning loss that can occur when students disengage from reading during school vacations. “Preventing the ‘summer slide’ is one of the most important things we can do for our young readers,” said Debra Rhodes Gibson, Library System Director. “The Summer Reading Program keeps kids engaged, learning, and building the skills they need for a strong start to the school year.”
In addition to reading challenges, SJCPLS has planned a wide variety of activities celebrating the nation’s stories and heritage. Families can enjoy Americana-themed games, scavenger hunts, arts and crafts, movies, trivia contests, STEM programs, storytimes, book clubs, and interactive educational presentations.
Several community organizations will partner with the library system to provide hands-on learning experiences throughout the summer. Featured partners include the Garden Club of St. Augustine, St. Johns County Parks and Recreation, Wild Lessons, and Wild Wonders. These programs will give participants opportunities to explore America’s natural landscapes, wildlife, and environmental treasures through engaging demonstrations and close-up encounters.
“What better way to beat the heat than by having a blast at the library?” said Lisa Calvert, Assistant Branch Manager and Youth Services Librarian. “There’s a parade of exciting programs inspiring star-spangled fun and reading all summer long.”
The 2026 theme also carries special significance as the nation prepares to commemorate its 250th anniversary. Flagler College student Hailey Clark designed this year’s “Stars, Stripes, and Stories” theme artwork in recognition of America’s upcoming semiquincentennial celebration.
The Summer Reading Program is sponsored by SJCPLS’s Friends of the Library groups, whose support helps expand literacy opportunities and educational programming for local families. As a community partner in education, SJCPLS encourages parents and caregivers to read with their children throughout the summer and take advantage of the library’s free resources, programs, and events.
Below is a calendar highlighting some of events taking place at each branch of the SJCPLS:
Anastasia Island Branch
June 1 | 10:30 a.m. — WIC Mobile Clinic (Family Resource Event)
Recurring Throughout Summer — Summer Reading Storytimes for young children and families.
Recurring Throughout Summer — Arts & Crafts Activities connected to the “Stars, Stripes, and Stories” theme.
Bartram Trail Branch
June 2 | 2:00 p.m. — Let the Games Begin! Family-friendly kickoff event featuring games and activities.
June 1–18 | During Library Hours — 2026 Pokémon Challenge where children search for hidden Pokémon, complete activities, and earn prizes.
Recurring Throughout Summer — STEM activities and Summer Reading programs for kids and families.
Hastings Branch
Recurring Throughout Summer — Summer Reading Challenge Programs with reading logs and prize incentives.
Recurring Weekly — Storytime Sessions for preschool and elementary-age children.
Recurring Throughout Summer — Family games, crafts, and educational activities tied to the summer reading theme.
Main Branch (St. Augustine)
June 3 | 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. — Summer Reading Kickoff Festival featuring family activities, entertainment, and reading program registration.
May 26–June 18 | During Library Hours — Paint The Parks! Teen art program celebrating America’s natural wonders.
January 3–July 31 | During Library Hours — Community Fiber Arts Project open to children, teens, and families.
Recurring Throughout Summer — Movie matinees, trivia events, arts and crafts programs, and reading activities.
Ponte Vedra Beach Branch
June 2 | 3:00 p.m. — American Girl Tea Party featuring themed activities for children and families.
Recurring Weekly — Summer Storytimes focused on literacy and early learning.
Recurring Throughout Summer — Reading challenges, crafts, games, and educational programs.
Southeast Branch
June 1 | 10:30 a.m. — Family Storytime for children ages 0–11.
June 2 | 2:00 p.m. — Animal Tales Exotic Animal Show! featuring live wildlife encounters and educational presentations.
June 2 | 4:00 p.m. — Teen Summer Club: Friendship Bracelets! creative workshop for teens.
June 3 | 2:00 p.m. — Nature Detective Workshop for Kids featuring hands-on exploration and environmental learning.
Recurring Throughout Summer — STEM programs, storytimes, reading challenges, and family activities.
For more information about the 2026 Summer Reading Program, available services, or a full calendar of over 100 events- visit sjcpls.org or contact a local St. Johns County Public Library branch.
