WE READ Summer Reading Program Begins May 1 at Madison Public Library

MADISON, WI – Beginning Thursday, May 1, WE READ returns for summer with programs, activities, and giveaways for kids and families across Madison and beyond. This year, WE READ features a specially designed map drawn by local artist Emily Balsley. The map encourages kids to come up with a creative reading goal for the summer and fill in steps along the way to achieve their goal. Balsley, who has helped design many elements for the WE READ program, including the logo and the WE READ tote bag, also drew an accompanying sticker sheet full of expressive faces that kids and families can use to track their progress on their way to achieving their goal. 

“The WE READ Map is a way to meet everyone where they’re at,” said Youth Services Manager Tammy Ocampo. “Whether you’re already a reader and want to choose a goal focused on reading a set number of books this summer, or you’re new to the library and want to explore reading through a different lens, there’s something for everyone. The beauty of this piece is that it’s flexible enough for various age ranges and interests.” 

The map can be used by an individual child or a family can use one map and set family goals. The map is designed for children of all ages, including for caregivers with babies, toddlers and preschoolers. Then starting in August, everyone is invited to stop in and pick up their commemorative WE READ patch or keychain (while supplies last) to celebrate their reading journeys.

Throughout the summer, kids and teens can visit libraries regularly to fill out Share Your Voice prompts. These questions will rotate and are designed to foster self-discovery. Once they’ve filled out a Share Your Voice card or poster, kids and teens can share them with a library staff member to receive a prize. Prizes vary by location, but could include rainbow pencils and mini notebooks, mini maker kits, or customizable snap bracelets. On the Dream Bus ONLY, pick up sunglasses to stay cool and protect your eyes while you read outdoors this summer!

For school-aged kids and teens, the WE READ Youth Voices Writing Contest will be accepting submissions May 1 - June 30, 2025. The theme for the 2025 writing contest is “Roots,” and was chosen by this year's Youth Ambassador and City of Madison Youth Poet Laureate, Justin Festge Russell inspired by the 150th Anniversary of Madison Public Library. 

Aspiring writers in the Madison area, ages 18 and under, are invited to submit a short story, poem, song, etc. with the chance to win cash prizes, get recognized on the field at a Forward Madison FC game, be published in the Youth Voices Anthology, and participate as one of the featured authors at the Wisconsin Book Festival Fall Celebration in October. Stories can be submitted online at madpl.org/youthvoices.

More WE READ Activities: 

• WE READ bags will be available at each library location beginning May 1 and are free to pick up while supplies last. This year, they feature a refreshed design thanks to artist Emily Balsley.
• Babies and Toddlers can join music and movement-based storytimes and parents will find Literacy Tips on the digital screens at each library all summer long. Literacy Tips can help families on their reading journey in the library or at home as they work with their pre-readers to develop skills.
• Play spaces at all nine libraries feature toys that give kids opportunities for creativity, problem-solving, and collaborating with their peers. Library staff have added new skill-building toys for babies and toddlers this summer.
• Art and making programs, Read to a Dog, Minecraft Club, Dungeons & Dragons, Summer Science, Graphic Novel Club, LEGO Club, Teen Writing Club, and more are available at library locations for youth. 

“On May 10th, 17th, and 31st, we’re hosting parties at all of our locations to celebrate the 150th Anniversary of Madison Public Library,” said Ocampo. “It’s the perfect time to visit a library, get or renew your library card, and pick up your WE READ materials for the summer.” 

Learn more about WE READ and all of the activities available this summer at Madison Public Library by visiting madpl.org/weread.

The WE READ program is funded by Madison Public Library Foundation, Steve Stricker American Family Insurance Foundation, Friends of the Madison Public Library, Roots & Wings Foundation, and Jane Doughty & David Wood.