LA Public Library's Summer Reading Challenge Returns (With A New Tote Bag To Covet)

The Los Angeles Public Library’s summer reading program started Monday, bringing the return of an opportunity for people of all ages to explore new stories and grab a coveted tote bag.

Readers of all ages get a free book and tote when they sign up and can earn other prizes after logging 10 hours of reading and/or activities — such as visiting a museum or attending an author talk.

“It's all about ‘choose your own adventure,’” said School Liaison Librarian Cathie Chenoweth.

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Cassandra Pressley was one of the first people to sign up at the Harbor City - Harbor Gateway Branch Library.

“I like to read, but I notice that I can get off track,” Pressley said. ”I like having reading buddies, so I feel like this is like a giant reading buddy party.”

Summer learning

Another key feature of the summer reading program is incentivizing kids to learn and warding off the dreaded summer slide.

“School is out and we are your next step for keeping active and engaged,” Chenoweth said.

The library offers free events, author talks, and passes to local museums and cultural institutions for families to experience together.

Among the library’s free resources:

• Online tutoring: One of Chenoweth’s favorite features is the ability to submit an essay and get tips on how to improve it within 12 hours. 
• LinkedIn Learning: More than 150,000 videos from industry experts on everything from programming to graphic design. 
• Octavia Lab: A makerspace at the Central Library with tools for 3D printing, audio production, photography, sewing, and more. Reservation and pre-registration required.

Los Angeles Unified students can earn a badge in their digital learning app, Schoology, by participating in the library program.

Take a tote to go

Pressley was also hoping to secure the coveted commemorative summer reading tote bag.

The Los Angeles Public Library doubled its order to 40,000 after the 2023 tote ran out before the summer’s end. (This reporter was among the slow-to-sign-up readers who missed out.)

Local artist Noor Sofi created this year’s design, which features a young reader surrounded by the glitz of moviemaking, music, and art beneath a smiling sun.

Observant readers might remember Sofi was featured in LAist's 2022 children’s book round-up for her work illustrating Brown is Beautiful— which you can also check out from the library!