Assemblyman Weprin Encourages Children of All Ages to ‘Dig Into Reading’ with Annual Summer Reading Challenge

Assemblyman David I. Weprin (D-Fresh Meadows) announced that the Assembly’s annual Summer Reading Challenge is just around the corner. Every year, the Assembly partners with New York State libraries to encourage children to continue reading during the summer after the school year ends. Upon completion of the Summer Reading Challenge, children will receive a New York State Assembly Excellence in Reading Certificate. “Learning shouldn’t stop when the last bell rings at the end of the school year,” Assemblyman Weprin said. “The Summer Reading Challenge offers a fun and exciting way for children of all ages to read, expand their imaginations and learn new things all year round.” To participate in the program, children must read by themselves or with a partner for a minimum of 15 minutes every day, for at least 40 days throughout the months of July and August. The days can be marked off on a provided calendar and submitted to Assemblyman Weprin. Those who participate will be awarded a New York State Assembly Excellence in Reading Certificate in the mail. “Reading is a fun, adventurous and educational activity that can also provide quality family time,” Assemblyman Weprin said. “Fostering a love of reading in our children is a gift that will last for many years to come.” This year’s Summer Reading Challenge themes are “Dig Into Reading” for children and “Beneath the Surface” for tweens. The challenge, while fun for the entire family, is a significant way to keep books in the hands of children throughout the summer months, noted Assemblyman Weprin. The initiative helps combat the inevitable decrease in learning – known as the “summer slide” – that takes place when young people are not in school during the summer. Unfortunately, the slide disproportionately affects children in high-need communities, where families may not have adequate out-of-school access to books and other educational resources.1 Here are some local libraries to visit: Queens Library- Hollis
202-05 Hillside Avenue, Hollis, NY 11423
Monday, Thursday, Friday, 11 am - 7 pm.
Tuesday 2pm-7pm. Wednesday 1pm - 7 pm.
Saturday & Sunday - Closed Queens Library- Glen Oaks
256-04 Union Tpke, Glen Oaks, NY 11004
Monday, Thursday, Friday, 11 am - 7 pm.
Tuesday 2pm-7pm. Wednesday 1pm - 7 pm.
Saturday & Sunday - Closed For more information about the 2013 Summer Reading Challenge, please visit the website (www.summerreadingnys.org), email weprind@assembly.state.ny.us or call Assemblyman Weprin’s office at (718) 454-3027.


1 www.nysl.nysed.gov/libdev/summer/research.htm