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The Meridian Library District’s Summer Reading Program helps thousands of children maintain literacy skills and foster a love of reading. Open to all, participants receive two free books and engage in challenges, prizes, and activities to prevent the "summer slide." Each year, the program provides over 5,000 free books, helping kids build home libraries and enhance literacy.

Due to rising costs and increased participation, the district can no longer fund the program within its budget. We invite community partners to sponsor this essential program, ensuring children continue to receive the resources and experiences needed to thrive academically. Your support is critical to keeping the program's success alive and inspiring a lifelong love of reading.

How will donations be used?

Donations will cover all program materials and supplies, excluding staff hours, including:

Program Books & Prizes

Printed Program Materials

Advertising & Volunteer Shirts

How can I donate?

We’re excited to partner with you! Click below to submit your online gift. If you prefer to donate by check, please mail* to:

Meridian Library Foundation
ATTN: Summer Reading
P.O. Box 1561
Meridian, ID 83680
*please include a contact name, phone number, and email address so we can send you a gift receipt!

What is the MLD Summer Reading Program?

The Meridian Library District’s Summer Reading Program encourages children across the Treasure Valley to maintain literacy skills and foster a love of reading. Open to all, it provides two free books per participant—one at registration and another upon completing reading hours. The program helps prevent "summer slide" with engaging challenges, prizes, and activities.

This year's theme is "Color Our World", with graphics provided by Collaborative Summer Library Program (CSLP).

Visit mld.org/summer for more details!

Summer Reading Important Dates

Friday, May 23rd - Meridian Library District’s Summer Reading Kickoff at Settlers Park.

Saturday, August 2nd - Summer Reading Program ends.

Summer Reading: Quick Facts

Why is this program important?

Prevents “summer slide,” helping kids maintain literacy skills.
Participants receive two free books & have no-cost access to the program.
Promotes literacy, a love of reading, & social-emotional growth.

2025 Goals & Highlights

Target: ~5,700 participants, including children & early learners.
Goal: Over 90,000 reading days.
Open to all youth in the Treasure Valley, with expanded access through the new Pinnacle Branch.

Proven Success:

Participation has nearly doubled in three years, growing from 2,870 in 2022 to 5,163 in 2024.
Free books ensure all children can build home libraries and develop healthy reading habits.