Get Caught Up Reading This Summer: Free Library Programs for Families

Summer is a time for fun, but for many students, it can also lead to a “summer slide”—a loss of academic progress when school’s out. The good news? Louisiana’s libraries are ready to help your child keep growing all summer long.

In honor of May being National Get Caught Reading Month, we’re highlighting library programs across the state to help your family get caught up on their reading this summer!

📚 Why Summer Reading Matters

Reading just 20 minutes a day can help students prevent the “summer slide,” a dip in academic skills that can happen over long breaks. Summer reading programs allow kids to explore new books, track their reading goals, and participate in fun events that keep their brains active.

🏕️ Library Programs We Love

1. Louisiana Statewide Summer Reading Program
Hosted by the State Library of Louisiana, this program connects families with public libraries in every parish. Kids can track their reading using Beanstack, attend themed events, and dive into creative activities like scavenger hunts and take-home crafts. 🔗 Find your local program

2. The “Check Out Louisiana” Program
Want to pair reading with real-world exploration? Through this special program, families can check out a Geaux Explore backpack from participating libraries, which includes a free one-day pass to any Louisiana State Park or Historic Site.

🔗 Learn more here

3. Attend a Summer Reading Kick-Off Celebration

Louisiana library summer reading kickoff events are fun, family-friendly celebrations that launch local reading programs with games, crafts, performances, and book-themed activities. These events across parishes like East Baton Rouge, Calcasieu, and Livingston, these events give kids a chance to register for reading challenges and get excited about learning all summer long. 🔗 Find your local program

📅 Go Digital: Plan Your Summer with Library Calendars

Many libraries, such as Livingston, Orleans, Jefferson, and East Baton Rouge, offer mobile apps and online calendars to keep up with weekly storytimes, book clubs, and STEM events.

Pro tip: schedule weekly library visits as part of your family’s summer routine—it’s a great way to build consistency and excitement around reading.

🌟 This Summer, Let’s Read

At Canopy Tutoring, we believe every child deserves a summer full of stories, discoveries, and growth. Louisiana’s libraries make it easy to turn reading into a shared family adventure. So this May, celebrate National Get Caught Reading Month—and let your child get caught up on their reading! 

Need extra reading support? Check out our private pay options for tutoring this summer or sign up for our email list to stay updated on our offerings, promotions, and tips for supporting your child’s learning!

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