Free summer reading program kicks off this week in Louisville

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Learning doesn't have to take a summer vacation.

Summer reading programs are important for students to keep learning throughout their time off. The Louisville Free Public Library is holding its annual 10-week Summer Reading Program to encourage children teens to read for fun over the summer.

"These programs are important for the kids, especially having the different reading programs available," said April Allen, a Louisville resident.

The summer reading program goes from May 28 to Aug. 2 and is free to all area youth, from newborn to 12th grade.

Families in Louisville and southern Indiana will also have access to arts, culture, science, history, heritage and nature through the Culture Pass. It's for anyone 21 years old or younger and their families.

The goal of the Cultural Pass is to cut down screen time and keep children engaged with learning. People can participate in arts and cultural activities for more than 50 venues free of charge.

"Summer reading program is so important to keep kids active and engaged when they are out of school but also to prevent summer learning loss," said Paul Burns, Louisville Free Public Library spokesperson.

The 10-week summer reading program is held at nearly 20 libraries in the Louisville area. More than 40,000 students participate every year.

"Making it a habit and creating a love of reading is really what the program is all about," Burns said.

The end goal is to prevent learning loss.

To learn more about the summer reading program, click here.

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