Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Summer Reading important?
Summer Reading helps kids and teens avoid "summer slide," and reintroduces them to the joy of reading for pleasure. It gives parents and kids an excuse to read or listen to books together, and it gives adults a reason to explore new books and authors.
Schedule
What are the dates for Summer Reading?
Jun. 1- Sept. 1, 2026
What’s the last day to begin reading and still have enough time to complete the Summer Reading Challenge?
August 3. However, if you register after August 3, you can still check off previous days that you've read on the log.
When are the opening celebrations?
- See all of our Summer Reading events.
How to Register
How do I register for Summer Reading in the Library App?
- Create a reading log for each reader in your household (adults, too!) and track your Summer Reading.
- If you don't already have the App, search for "Arlington Public Library" in the App Store or in the Google Play Store and look for the County logo in pink. After downloading the App, log into your Library Account with your library card number or username and password.
- You can manage multiple Library Accounts in the Library App.
What if I already have the Library App but don't see My Summer Reading?
- Update your Library App to the latest version in the App Store or in the Google Play Store.
- Registration is not available until June 1.
Can multiple reading logs be managed under one Library Account on the Library App?
- Yes! One Library account can be used to manage multiple summer reading registrations. For example, one parent's library account can be used to register for Summer Reading for each family member in their household.
Can a reading log be tracked from more than one Library App/device?
- Yes! If a reading log is backed up to a Library Account that is managed on more than one person's Library App/device, that reading log will be available on both of those devices. For example, a parent can manage both their own Library Account and their child's Library account on their Library App.
- If the child also has their own Library Account on the Library App, and the data backup for the child's reading log is the child's Library Account, then both parent and child can track the child's reading log.
How can I participate in Summer Reading if I don't have a smart phone or don't want to use the Library App?
- You can pick up a paper reading log from the Library or download it in English/Spanish [PDF] or large print in English [PDF].
If I use a paper reading log, how do I report that I have finished Summer Reading?
- Visit any Library location or call 703-228-5990. We will need your name, age, a phone number or email address to contact you if you win the prize drawing.
- You will need to visit a Library in person to claim any other prizes that you earned.
How to Complete Summer Reading
How do I track my Reading?
- Use the Library App to track your reading until you reach 30 days. Tap a day on your reading log calendar to change it from white to green, and the status bar at the top of the screen will show the number of days you have read.
- Alternatively, use a paper reading log and mark off each day on the calendar that you have read. Bring the paper reading log with you to report completion and claim prizes.
How do I complete Summer Reading?
- Read for at least 30 days between June 1 and September 1 and mark the days in the Library App or on your paper log.
How much do I have to read per day to complete Summer Reading?
- There’s no minimum! Read a lot or a little: Books, newspapers, magazines, audiobooks—it all counts!
- If you’ve read anything at all on a particular day, you can mark it on your reading log.
How do I become a Super Reader?
- Read for another 30 days. Choose from a selection of plantable flower or herb pots. Get your own Super Reader certificate.
Your name will be entered into drawings for your chance to win a $100 visa gift card or free tickets from the Washington Mystics or the Washington Spirit.
Prizes
How do I earn prizes for Summer Reading?
- Visit the Summer Reading Prizes section.
How do I redeem my voucher for 2 free tickets to a Washington Nationals game?
- Visit nationals.com/summerreading and enter the code that appears on the back of your voucher.
Which Washington Nationals game dates can I choose from?
- A selection of Regular and Value games from May through September are eligible for voucher redemption.
Can I use my voucher for more than one game?
- No, each voucher (exchangeable for 2 tickets) can only be redeemed for one game.
Who can I contact contact if I have trouble redeeming my voucher?
- If you have any questions, please call 202-675-6287 (NATS) or email ticketinfo@nationals.com.
When is the last day for to pick up prizes?
- Tuesday, September 2.
Summer Reading 2026: Plant A Seed, Read is made possible through the generosity of the Friends of the Arlington Public Library and the Washington Nationals and is hosted in partnership with the Arlington Food Assistance Center and Arlington County Department of Cultural Affairs.
