As a San Diego family photographer, I’m all about capturing the in-between moments. Like the quiet joy of your kid curled up with a book, they picked out for themselves. Summer can be a whirlwind of beach days and popsicle-sticky adventures, but there’s something so grounding about watching your child fall in love with reading. That’s exactly why I love the Public Library’s Summer Reading Program in San Diego. It’s fun, simple, totally free, and a perfect way to build reading into the rhythm of your summer.
Locations throughout San Diego, CA
This long-running program is one of the most beloved summer traditions in San Diego. Hosted by the city’s public library system, the program encourages kids, teens, and even adults to read throughout the summer and earn rewards for doing it. It’s available at every San Diego Public Library branch, so no matter where you live, you can join in on the fun.
The library partners with local businesses and organizations to offer fun prizes and events throughout the season. And because everything is tracked online or on paper logs, kids of all ages (and reading levels) can participate at their own pace.
The Summer Reading Program is built around a simple challenge: read, learn, and earn rewards. Kids track their reading hours and complete activities (like attending a storytime, writing a book review, or visiting a park) to unlock prizes. There are often small goodies along the way, like books, bookmarks, coupons, and entries into raffles.
The program is designed to be accessible and encouraging, not stressful. Your child can read anything. These can be graphic novels, audiobooks, picture books, or even listening as a pre-reader counts. That flexibility is a huge win for busy families with kids at different ages and stages.
Local libraries often host themed events, craft days, author visits, and even live performances throughout the program, making it feel like so much more than just a reading challenge. It’s a full summer experience.
One of the coolest aspects of the San Diego Summer Reading Program is how inclusive it is. It’s open to kids of all abilities and backgrounds, and it encourages reading in any language. Families are welcome to track progress together, which makes it a sweet bonding activity even if your child is still learning to read on their own.
And because the program is citywide, you’ll find a strong sense of community around it. You’ll see the posters in windows, hear other parents talk about their kids’ progress, and maybe even spot a themed library event at your local park or community center.
The Summer Reading Program At San Diego Public Library is one of those rare gems that’s both fun and educational and totally free. It gives your kids a sense of purpose during those long summer weeks and keeps their imaginations working. All while building a lifelong love of books.
If you’re living in this chapter of early childhood, the one filled with library cards, bedtime stories, and well-loved board books, I’d love to help you remember it. As a San Diego family photographer, I specialize in capturing the honest, everyday magic of your life. Reach out, and let’s document these sweet, ordinary moments before they turn the page.