“The Fort Worth Public Library has a record of creating unique programs and finding innovative ways to support city-wide efforts to improve literacy,” said Library Director Midori Clark, “Summertime in public libraries is about exploration and reading for fun.”

Across Fort Worth, to encourage exploration, libraries will host more than a thousand free, quality programs for various interests and ages. In addition to the cultural, educational and entertaining programs provided year-round, the summer lineup includes entertaining performers, special story time guest readers, musical performances and more.

Photo courtesy of the Fort Worth Public Library

Returning this summer, to encourage more reading and combat the summer slide, is the Fort Worth Mayor’s Summer Reading Challenge. In partnership with the Fort Worth Mayor’s Office, this program encourages residents and families to spend more minutes reading this summer.

“It’s incredibly important to encourage our young readers. We know that students lose on average about 20 percent of their school-year gains in reading during the summer break,” said Mayor Mattie Parker. “I am glad to partner with our incredible Library team to encourage a summer spent with more time reading.”

Reading minute milestones are tracked easily in the Beanstack app or website, and prizes are awarded at local library locations when participants complete the challenge. Residents can sign up 24/7 in the Beanstack app (iOS and Android) and anyone who needs help can ask the Library’s staff on their next visit.

“Literacy is foundational in a thriving community, and whether you’re challenging yourself, your friends, or your family members, setting goals to read more minutes is fun with the library’s support,” said Parker.

Photo courtesy of the Fort Worth Public Library

As participants continue to enjoy the unique, engaging experiences they come to expect in Library summer programming, they can look forward to the exciting development of a new year-round program for continually engaging with the Library’s activities and programs. During this development phase, participants in reading challenges will not see activity badges in Beanstack.

“Our library staff is currently developing a year-round program for residents that incentivizes participation in library activities and learning opportunities,” said Clark, “I want to give our staff time to develop the best program possible. We intend to introduce it to Fort Worth residents in January 2025.”

Residents are encouraged to explore the Library’s online calendar, sign up for their local branch newsletter and talk with staff about the free programs offered at their neighborhood locations. Library cards are not required for participation in any public library event or program but are encouraged so patrons gain access to more than one million items available to check out.

“As a child who grew up in the melting pot of public libraries, I cannot wait to experience a Texas-size summer of fun in my first summer in Fort Worth,” said Clark. “I encourage everyone to sign up for the reading challenge, visit their libraries and explore all the exciting programs our talented team has created.”

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