Public libraries all over New Mexico are already getting ready for summer – specifically their Summer Reading Program!
Summer Reading Programs are a foundation of summer programming in cities, towns, and villages all over New Mexico. The New Mexico State Library proudly supports summer reading programs at public libraries throughout the state because we believe – Summer Reading Programs help build relationships and community, foster civic partnerships, encourage reading and the use of other library resources, and provide needed out-of-school programming throughout New Mexico.
In Summer 2024, over 107,000 New Mexicans attended 2,718 Summer Reading Program events across the state. Parents and Caregivers overwhelmingly report positive impacts from participation in library Summer Reading Programs, seen in both academic and social skills. (See graphic below.) New Mexico public libraries are offering summer reading programs for all ages – from Pre-K to Adult – because everyone in the community is looking for opportunities to connect with one another and connect to resources at their library. Libraries are offering traditional programs like storytime and book clubs, as well as crafts and makerspace activities, science and STEM programs, escape rooms, nature programs, movie screenings, and special guest performers.
As a state member of the national Collaborative Summer Library Program (CSLP), the New Mexico State Library provides membership to all New Mexico public libraries to access a national theme materials and resources. The CSLP national theme for 2025 is Art, with a slogan of 
– a perfect theme for New Mexico and our rich history of artmaking. The Summer Reading Champion for 2025 is award-winning author Katherine Applegate, who is hosting a national Summer Reading Kick-Off for library staff on March 5, 2025. Applegate’s publisher, Macmillon Children’s Publishing Group is also sponsoring a nationwide writing contest for children ages 8-12. Check out the Kick-Off event for full details!
The New Mexico State Library is offering a series of February workshops around the state, and an online version as well, to assist library staff in preparing their summer reading programs. Library staff can find more information and registration links on the NMSL Training Calendar. Each workshop will include presentations from frontline New Mexico public library staff, the NMSL Youth Services Coordinator, Kelly McCabe. A special thanks to Clovis-Carver Public Library, Alamogordo Public Library, and Rio Rancho Public Library for hosting our in-person workshops!
Library staff that need any additional information about accessing summer reading materials should reach out to our Youth Services Coordinator, Kelly McCabe.
