Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay has announced the New York State Assembly Summer Reading Challenge, aimed at encouraging young readers to remain engaged in learning during the summer break. The initiative invites students to read for a minimum of 15 minutes daily over 40 days throughout the summer. Successful participants will receive an Excellence in Reading certificate from Leader Barclay.
“Reading each day helps children maintain the skills they developed during the school year,” said Leader Barclay. “It builds vocabulary, strengthens comprehension and fosters a lifelong appreciation for books. Even a short daily routine can make a big impact by keeping students engaged and active over the break.”
The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reports that reading scores have declined since 2020, highlighting the significance of initiatives like the Summer Reading Challenge. Legislators, educators, and families play essential roles in fostering strong reading habits among students.
Leader Barclay is collaborating with local literacy organizations to promote this year’s challenge, including Oswego Bookmobile and Imagination Library of Oswego County. The Oswego Bookmobile will visit various locations such as Oswego, Mexico, Pulaski, Hannibal, and Fulton throughout the summer.
“We are thrilled to showcase the new Bookmobile at our summer reading sites this year. The display shelves inside the Bookmobile create an inviting space for kids to choose their own titles and we even have a carve out for our teen readers and adults. All are welcome to explore. Thank you to Leader Barclay for encouraging families to read together,” said Susan McBrearty, President of Oswego Bookmobile.
Andrew Eusebio from Imagination Library of Oswego County emphasized the importance of engaging young children with books: “It’s easy to slip into summer mode but our littlest readers, from birth to age five, are eager for books and stories no matter the season.”
Local libraries also contribute significantly by offering programming, book lending services, reading logs, and events aimed at sustaining children’s interest in reading.
Pairing visits to resources like the Bookmobile or local libraries with participation in the Summer Reading Challenge can enhance enjoyment and accessibility of reading activities.
Further information on downloading a reading journal or details about the NYS Assembly Summer Reading Challenge can be found on the New York State Assembly website.
