Summer reading is in full bloom at the Oak Lawn Public Library, where readers of all ages are invited to “Plant a Seed, Read!” as part of this year’s iRead summer reading program.
The fun kicked off June 1 and runs through Saturday, Aug. 1, with patrons encouraged to log their reading at olpl.beanstack.org for prizes and take part in a full lineup of summer events designed to keep the pages turning.
This year’s theme leans into gardening, turning reading into something that grows all summer long. Library staff say the idea is simple: plant the habit, water it with good books and watch the rewards grow along the way.
For the youngest readers, the Youth Services Department is offering two age-based programs. The Koala Club, for ages 0-3, helps parents introduce early literacy through simple, playful activities built around reading and interaction.
Kids ages 4-14 can dig into the main “Plant a Seed, Read!” challenge, tracking their progress with reading logs available at the Youth Services Desk. Along the way, readers earn prizes for reaching milestones. The first round of prizes is available starting June 15, with additional rewards arriving July 1. All prizes must be picked up by Aug. 5, while supplies last.
One of the season’s biggest highlights is the Summer Reading Celebration: Foam Party, happening 11 a.m. to noon Saturday, July 25. Expect music, laughter and a whole lot of foam thanks to Foam Party All Stars. Library officials note the event is weather dependent. The Friends of the Oak Lawn Library are sponsoring the celebration.
Adults and teens aren’t left out of the fun. The Adult and Young Adult Services Department is offering its own summer reading challenge, encouraging participants to read for 30 days to earn prizes. Those who go the extra mile and log 15 additional days can enter the Keep Growing raffle, with prizes donated by local businesses and the Friends group.
Adult programming also includes a two-part Herb Garden Exchange on Thursday, June 11, and Thursday, Aug. 27, from 6 to 7 p.m. Participants will learn how to grow fresh herbs in June, then come back in August to swap what they’ve grown with others. Registration is required.
Summer reading is already underway and continues through Aug. 1, giving the whole community plenty of time to plant a little reading, and watch it grow.
