Summer Reading is for everyone - babies included!
How can babies join Summer Reading if they cannot read?
They can be read to! Every time a grownup, or child, reads to the baby, it counts towards the baby's (and the grownup or child's) Summer Reading goal of 25 books. Once they complete, they get a free book that they get to keep forever and a coupon for a free scoop of custard at the Lake Zurich Culvers.
What are the benefits of babies joining Summer Reading?
Research shows that sharing books, conversations, and songs with young children builds language skills, contributes to healthy development and academic success, and encourages a love of reading.
Do I have to log every title we read?
Not at all. You can just log the number of books that you read, no title needed. Any books that you've read since May 29, 2026 count too!
Are there Grand Prizes for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers?
Yes! Babies are in the Pre-Reader Program which has several Grand prize drawings that will happen at the end of the program, after August 18.
Babies, toddlers, preschoolers, readers, non-readers, young adults, and adults can all participate in Summer Reading. Don't live in Barrington? Don't have a Barrington Library card? Not a problem, we want everyone to be a part of the Summer Reading program and be rewarded for all of their reading they are doing this summer, whether on their own or being read to.
Sign up today at balibrary.org/summer.
Youth Services Librarian MaryJo