articles

2023 Free Summer Reading Programs Starts Jun 1, 2023

Thursday, June 1 - Monday, August 1, 2023

By Veronica Leon, Publisher Macaroni Kid Scottsdale & Tempe April 30, 2023

Want to keep your kids' reading over the summer? How about joining a free summer reading program? Plan for a summer reading program (or two) because it helps motivate kids with reading incentives as well as provides accountability. 

Here are all your options:

1. Scottsdale and Phoenix Public Library

Make this your first stop for summer reading. Most public libraries will be kicking their summer reading program in May. They will often have the chance to get free books or prizes–even with the strange times in which we live.






  • Kids, Teens, and Adults earn one point for every minute spent reading.
  • Register online at maricopacountyreads.org.
  • Stop by the library to pick up a gameboard for children (ages 0-12). Learn more about how to easily participate in summer reading with your children to help get them ready to read or keep reading!
  • All ages can earn additional points by completing challenges all summer long. Challenges can be found on the Summer Reading website.
  • Please, only one account per person.

*Subject to change. 

*Prizes are available while supplies last

For additional questions, please call us at 480-312-READ (7323) or use our Ask-a-Librarian service.


2. Barnes and Noble

This summer, kids in grades 1-6 earn a Free book through the Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program; Read any eight books and record them in your Summer Reading Journal. When you're done, bring it to a Barnes & Noble store and choose your free book! Redeemable 7/1 thru 8/31.


3. Scholastic Summer Reading




From May 4 through September 7, visit the Scholastic summer zone for stories, games, and community. Keep track of your books, read e-books and meet favorite characters and authors. Print reading achievement reports.


4. Half-Price Books 

Half-Price Books Summer Reading Camp returns Thursday, June 1, and runs through Monday, July 31. Register now to receive reminders about the camp, and to receive reading lists and fun activities to keep your kiddos busy all summer long!


Are we missing a Summer Reading Program that you know about? 
Please fill us in with the details at Veronical@macaronikid.com or submit any info you know HERE