Public libraries across New Mexico spent the summer engaging with their communities through their Summer Reading Program. The New Mexico State Library provides statewide membership in the Collaborative Summer Reading Program (CSLP) to all public libraries in New Mexico. CSLP provides a unified theme, graphics, and programming manual to assist libraries in providing dynamic programming for their patrons. For Summer 2023 the theme was “All Together Now” 
focusing on kindness, friendship, and community. Each library designs a program which best meets the needs of their individual community – with performers, crafts, reading logs and challenges, science experiments, book clubs, escape rooms and more!
“We are grateful for this program and how much it promotes reading in our own community.”
The New Mexico State Library gathers data about the summer reading programs through surveys for the libraries and for parents and caregivers of participants. Over 32,000 New Mexicans registered for their local summer reading program – a 38% increase from 2022 – and a 29% increase in overall event attendees. Parents and Caregivers overwhelmingly report the positive impact of summer reading programs on reading amount, reading skill, and library usage.
See full stats below:
Looking forward to 2024, the Summer Reading theme is Adventure Begins at Your Library. Libraries can reach out to Youth Services Coordinator, Kelly McCabe, for assistance in accessing materials for next year’s program.
