Summer Reading

2025 Summer Reading Program

May 31 -- July 26

The Public Library's Summer Reading Program, Color Our World, is almost here! Watch this page for updates!

Are you between the ages of 13 and 18? Do you want to make a difference in your community by volunteering?

If you answered "YES" to these questions, then the Public Library wants you!

What is Summer Reading?

• A free 8-week program at branches of the Public Library of Albuquerque-Bernalillo County that encourages babies, children, tweens, teens and adults to read (or be read to!) throughout the summer. Get signed up and pick up a Reading Log at any of our Library branches beginning May 31, or signup online beginning May 9.
• Set your own reading goals and read whatever you like at your own pace wherever you're most comfortable. Babies, Children, Tweens & Teens: Once a week, bring your reading log to any of our Public Library Branch locations, show us your progress, and you'll earn a weekly prize! Adults will earn chances at weekly prizes at each check-in visit. All participants who turn in their completed reading logs up until the end of the Summer Reading Program will be entered into grand prize drawings for their age group held at each branch.
• Watch this quick video to learn about the summer slide and how to keep your kids learning!

Why is Summer Reading important?

• Studies have shown that children who read during the summer are more able to maintain their reading skills and that children who see their parents read, or who read with their parents, or other important adults in their lives, generally score higher on standardized tests.
• Reading is important for everyone in the community, regardless of age, and reading is a skill that grows with practice throughout a lifetime. The Library's Summer Reading Program is free, easy to do because you read whatever you like at your own pace, and it's a fun, simple, zero-risk way of showing your support for the Public Library and its services.

Special Events during the Summer Reading Program: Live and In-Person!

You can pick up your own copy of our Special Events Guide at any local Public Library branch (Available soon!). There is no advance registration required to attend Children & Family Special Events. Other event categories, especially events for Tweens and Teens, DO require advance registration as we have limited supplies for our participants. Other Special event categories MAY require advance registration; please check your Special Event Guide for details, or ask at the branch holding the event.

Sometimes, we're faced with unforeseen circumstances beyond our control! Please check this website for any Special Event updates before you head over to the branch - we'll post the latest details here!