All 65 libraries across the county are gearing up for Summer Reading as Maricopa County Reads begins June 1 at MaricopaCountyReads.org (English) or CondadoDeMaricopaLee.org (Spanish).

With a community goal of 50 million minutes read, Maricopa County Reads is one of the county’s largest literacy efforts and plays a vital role in reducing learning loss while transitioning between school years.

“Building a community of readers means we are building a community of problem-solvers, collaborators, and lifelong learners,” said Bill Gates, Chairman of the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors, District 1. “The Summer Reading program is just one way to continue building an even brighter future for Maricopa County.”

Participants earn one point per minute for reading physical or electronic books (including graphic novels) or listening to audiobooks. Additional points are earned for attending in-person and virtual events hosted by librarians and local performers, completing summer reading challenges, and participating in community experiences to find secret codes while exploring Maricopa County.

Prizes vary based on the amount of points readers achieve. Readers who achieve 1,000 points can choose a free book for their home library, or to donate to a local Head Start classroom.

The theme of this year’s program is “Oceans of Possibilities,” encouraging readers of all ages to explore the many stories from under the sea.

Registration is open now and participants earn points through Aug. 1

Participating library systems

Six of the 65 libraries from several library systems across the Valley are local. Those libraries include:
• Asante Library — 16755 W. Vereda Solana Drive, Surprise.
• El Mirage Library — 14011 N. 1st Ave., El Mirage.
• Hollyhock Library — 15844 N. Hollyhock St., Surprise.
• Litchfield Park Library — 101 W. Wigwam Blvd.,
Litchfield Park.
• Northwest Regional Library — 16089 N. Bullard Ave., Surprise.
• White Tank Library — 20304 W. White Tank Mountain Road, Waddell.

How to earn points

• Reading physical and electronic books
• Listening to audio books
• Attending online events
• Participating in community experiences

Prizes include a free personal pizza coupon from Peter Piper Pizza up to age 11, free lemonade coupon from Raising Cane’s, a free kids meal from Rubio’s (kids) and a free chips and guacamole appetizer from Rubio’s (teens and adults).