By Kimberly Demers · Photo provided by Douglas County Libraries
The days are warmer, the wildflowers are popping up, and schools are out in just a few weeks – that summertime feeling is here.
It’s about this time of year I get the itch to make our family’s summer bucket list. There’s nothing too fancy when it comes to creating our plan for the summer. I round up ideas from our family of five and then add them all to one page. I make sure to post the list up for everyone to see and then we work through as many things as we can throughout the summer break.
No idea is too small for the summer bucket list. Interesting crafts to try, friends to see, food to enjoy, and events to attend are most of the items that have a spot in our summertime plans. Though things change from year to year, there’s one thing that rarely gets forgotten.
Every summer, I pile my three daughters in the car, book tote in hand, and head to our nearest library branch to register for the summer reading program. My girls’ excitement is contagious as we grab our summer reading packet and a large, teetering stack of books. They get right to it as soon as we get home.
Our family has participated in a few different summer library programs over the years, but my favorite has been the program put on by our Douglas County Libraries. Each year brings a new immersive theme and list of events for patrons of all ages. No matter your age or interest, there’s something for you during the summer reading event.
Patrons can track reading goals through a physical booklet found at any library branch or online when you register for summer reading. While individual goals can be created, each reading minute tracked is added to a collective counter. This logs each minute towards a community-wide goal. Reaching this goal helps support local organizations doing good in Douglas County.
As a loyal library patron and DCL volunteer, I can tell you the summer reading program is one of the most anticipated programs of the year (besides Brew Tour). Last year, with over seven thousand participants registered, it’s clear I’m not the only one excited to read along.
During DCL’s summer reading program, I can’t wait to participate in all the unique events that come only during this time of year. I love volunteering at the outdoor storytime and bringing my daughters to themed educational classes held inside the library. There’s so much to be a part of, and it’s right here in our own town.
For 2026, enjoy a bit of Western charm with this year’s theme, “Howdy Partner, Let’s Read!” Preregister online or head to your closest DCL branch on or after June 6th for the kick-off event. While you’re there, grab your full summer reading packet and a pile of books to get started on a mighty fine summer of reading.
Kimberly is a wife, mother, and freelance writer. She loves being an active DCL volunteer, where she supports community outreach and children’s literacy.