We are saddened to announce that SummerREADS will not be taking place in summer 2020. Based on the continued global health crisis, the Weinberg Foundation and Young Audiences have made the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 program.

We recognize how important SummerREADS is to our community, and we are truly disappointed to have to cancel this summer.

With the interest of the health and safety of our communities as a top priority, we recognize that convening in a physical space this summer is not possible. After exploring all alternative programming options (including holding SummerREADS virtually), we came to the conclusion that the Weinberg libraries themselves are central to the program. These magical spaces are the heart of SummerREADS, offering a place for students and staff to come together in community while fostering a life-long love of reading and the arts.

We encourage families to apply for the Summer Arts & Learning Academy (SALA), which is being offered virtually this summer, as well as to explore other summer offerings in Baltimore City this year.

It is the sincere hope of both Young Audiences and the Weinberg Foundation that we will be able to resume SummerREADS in person in 2021.

About SummerREADS

There is a significant body of evidence that reading on grade level is an important indicator for future academic and life success. Unfortunately, many young people struggle with this important skill development. After-school and summer programs can play a critical role in providing literacy rich environments and engaging families in literacy activities.

Now entering its sixth year, SummerREADS is a free literacy initiative that provides weekly drop-in programming for Baltimore City students. The program is geared toward students who are entering grades K-3 in the fall, though students entering grades K-5 may register. Each host school and library offers a safe and welcoming space where students can participate in literacy workshops with teaching artists and enrichment activities with special guests. Students also earn incentives for reading, receive two free and well-balanced meals per day, take books home, and access other library resources.

In partnership with The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, the Baltimore Elementary and Middle School Library Project, and Baltimore City Public Schools, Young Audiences will operate eleven SummerREADS program sites in Baltimore City during a five-week period this summer.