Boyne Regional Library launches 2025 Summer Reading Program July 2
The Boyne Regional Library is inviting local youth to shoot for the stars this summer through its 2025 Summer Reading Program, officially launching July 2.
Open to children entering kindergarten through Grade 12, the free program runs until Aug. 23 and is designed to keep kids engaged in reading over the summer break. This year’s theme, Read for the Stars, encourages young readers to dream big, explore new interests and build a lifelong love of books.
“I hope the Summer Reading Program encourages kids and families to keep up their reading over the summer, as well as become more active participants in the library and the programs we offer,” said Scarlett, the library’s summer clerk. “I think it’s important to get kids excited about reading, and I hope they can do that through this program.”
Children can register in person at the library and will receive 10 ballots upon signup to enter for one of 10 themed prize baskets. Additional ballots are earned by completing weekly reading challenges, which are designed to help children discover different genres and parts of the library.
“The purpose of the challenges is to get kids to branch out from their comfort zones with their reading, while rewarding them with an extra ballot,” Scarlett explained. “All of the challenges involve checking out a specific kind of book—like one by a Canadian author or a non-fiction book.”
This year’s prizes feature a fun cosmic twist in keeping with the space-themed motif. One highlight is a telescope, and each basket includes items that reflect the Read for the Stars theme, even if not directly space-related.
“We change the prizes up a little bit each year,” Scarlett said. “We’ll also have passive programs like voting on your favourite planet running throughout the summer, as well as themed crafts.”
All prize basket winners will be drawn on Aug. 27, with one winner selected for each basket.
The library reports strong participation in previous years, with over 500 children joining the program in 2024. Scarlett said the initiative helps build positive habits and makes the library an inviting space for all ages.
“The program helps kids want to come to the library and check out books because it adds a fun aspect to reading even when they’re not in school,” she said. “We hope that through the Summer Reading Program, even kids who aren’t big fans of reading can find a book they love.”
Participation is free for youth living in the Town of Carman and RM of Dufferin. Children in the RM of Grey are also eligible for a free summer membership. Non-residents may purchase a six-month membership for $32.50 or an annual one for $65, though some municipalities offer reimbursement.
“If you’re not sure about your eligibility, just ask at the front desk,” Scarlett added.
This year’s grand prizes are sponsored by Access Credit Union. The library also thanked several local businesses for supporting the prize baskets, including the Blue Crescent Hotel, Carman Home Hardware, Carman Pharmacy, Evensong Shoppe, Greenland Equipment Ltd., Peace Lily Therapeutics, The Price Is Rite, Syl’s Drive Inn and Whitehots.
For more information or to register, visit the Boyne Regional Library in person or online.
