This summer’s program at the Chicago Public Library is all about exploring science and art in the architecture around us.
From July 6 to August 15, kids 0-13 years old are invited to build their own stories in all kinds of ways, at the library, in the community, or on their own. Things will look a little different this year, but the Chicago Public Library is always here to support summer learning.
CPL will offer virtual events, including STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) activities, music performances, and story times, as well as grab-and-go activity kits and new books to keep kids’ brains active.
Most local library branches around the city have reopened. Starting Monday, July 6, kids can go online or head to the neighborhood library to register for Building Stories: Summer Learning Challenge 2020. At the library, they can pick up an Explorer’s Guide — an activity book filled with activities to try at the library or at home. There will be puzzles, design challenges, and hands-on STEAM activities in the Explorer’s Guide and online. They also will find new books to keep kids’ brains active and avoid the “summer slump” in reading.
Those taking the summer challenge can log in using the Explorer’s Guide or download and print a PDF of the reading log to track what they do this summer. The log also is available in Spanish. Here are the program’s requirements:
- Read: 500 minutes or more over the summer. Read books, magazines, comics, eBooks, audiobooks, or anything else you want, for at least 20 minutes a day — all reading counts!
- Discover: Complete at least one hands-on activity. Try a library activity, try a Museum of Science and Industry Summer Brain Game, or other STEAM activity or explore something new.
- Create: Make at least one creation. Make art, write a story, or design something new.
Students can share what they read and learn to earn a book bag. They can share at the library, on the Chicago Public Library website, on social media using the hashtag #CPLkids, or by emailing [email protected]. Students up to age 5 who register will receive a free book, courtesy of KPMG, while supplies last.
Parents and caregivers who read, discover and create along with their children and complete a log will have a chance to win a technology package.
Parents and students can learn more about the summer learning challenge at the CPL learning challenge webpage.
Teen program
Teenagers have their own summer program, which also is offered from July 6 to August 15. The Chicago Public Library wants to give teens a chance to “Sound Off.”
Teens can print a Sound Off Pick 4 card or get it from a local library branch. They can complete four activities of their choice between July 6 and August 15. Teens should track all they make, do, and read over the summer, then connect with the library on social media or email your Pick 4 card to [email protected] to be entered in citywide raffles for gift cards and other prizes for every four squares you complete.
Teens and parents can find out more at the CPL teen challenge webpage, including details about virtual events aimed at teenagers; music and social justice books, including those available as ebooks; and YouTube videos available through the Chicago Public Library.
