Summer reading isn’t just about keeping kids academically on track, it’s one of the best “free fun” tools families can use all summer long. It helps keep kids motivated, prevents the “summer slide,” and opens the door to some pretty amazing perks around town and beyond. Your child's reading goals and visits to our local libraries can unlock free food, prizes, museum passes, and even full-on family experiences.
Here’s your go-to guide for making the most of summer reading in our area and across the state of Georgia. 👇
Athens-Clarke & Oconee County Libraries
Our Athens-Clarke Regional Library System (ACRLS) is the anchor of summer reading for most families in our community and I couldn't brag on them enough.
To get started, simply stop by one of our ARLS libraries to pick up your Summer Reading Log to help you keep track of the books you read. Turn your logs in to win prizes and recognition throughout the summer!
Summer Reading Kickoff Dates:
- Athens-Clarke Library: Saturday, May 30, 2026
- Oconee County Library: Saturday, May 16, 2026
- Other locations TBA
Barnes & Noble
"This summer, kids in grades 1-6 earn a FREE book through the Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program. Read any eight books and record them in your Summer Reading Journal (see links below). When you're done, bring it to a Barnes & Noble store and choose your free book! Redeemable 7/1-8/31."
Check It Out Reading Challenge for Atlanta Hawks Tickets
"A free youth ticket with the purchase of at least 1 adult ticket to a 2026-27 Atlanta Hawks regular season game. (Information on how to redeem tickets will be sent out via email before the start of the 2026-27 season.)"
Chuck E. Cheese
Earn 10 free play points for reading!
- Will begin summer 2026
Dolly Pardon Imagination Library
Children under the age of five can get a free book mailed to them every month*, all year round, through Dolly Parton's Imagination Library.
*Currently, this program extends to residents of Oconee County and not Athens-Clarke.
Fun Fact: I recently applied to (hopefully) help start a program for Athens-Clarke county residents. The application is pending and I will keep you posted!
Experience Passes
While this perk doesn't require any summer reading, it's a great way to connect with one of our ACRLS libraries!
"Experience Passes are available through all public libraries in Georgia. You can borrow a Pass from your local library, just like a book, and use it at the following locations for free admission."
The Mayor's Summer Reading Club
"The Mayor’s Summer Reading Club (MSRC) is a program for children ages birth to five and their families that takes place in various locations throughout the city of Atlanta each summer."
- The 2026 season launches May 14 and will feature a live and interactive reading of DINOSAUR! which will offer a complimentary copy for children to take home.
- View other upcoming events.
Pizza Hut BOOK IT! Program
"During the summer months of June, July, and August, any child that meets their parent-set reading goals can earn a free Pizza Hut® single topping Personal Pan Pizza®* from participating locations. Use the BOOK IT!® Mobile App to set goals, track progress, and redeem rewards."
The Carlos Museum's Wrapped Up in Reading
"Children who read five books from the Summer 2026 Book List and return their completed Reading Diary, signed by a guardian, to the museum will receive prizes and free admission. Completed reading diaries should be brought to the Office of Educational Programs on the Plaza Level or the Admission Desk on Level One. The last day to return your reading diary is September 6, 2026.
Books from the Wrapped Up in Reading book list are also available at many libraries in Georgia, thanks to the museum's partnership with the Georgia Public Library Service."
The Good and the Beautiful Free* Summer Reading Pack
"Add one FREE Summer Reading Program pack to your cart for each child in your household. Choose from five levels, each with a different book. *Pay only $1.99 shipping per pack.
OR . . . Download the FREE Summer Reading Program PDF pack found below and print out the reading log and bookmark at home."
Did I overlook one?
If you know of a summer reading perk that can be added to this list, e-mail me any time at jessicasweeney@macaronikid.com.
Looking for more things to do with kids in Athens & Oconee?
 |  |  |
