How do you keep kids engaged all summer — while keeping things free, local and screen-light? That’s exactly what Chicago Public Library’s 2025 summer reading program is designed to do.
“‘Summer at CPL’ is fun for the whole family, with activities that inspire curiosity, creativity and learning,” says Lori Frumkin, senior project manager in the Department of Children’s Services & Family Engagement. “And of course, everything is free!”
This program is welcoming kids, teens and adults to read, explore and discover something new — all summer long. It all kicks off Saturday, June 21, 2025, with nature-themed parties at Legler, Sulzer and Woodson regional libraries.
A summer of choice, creativity and cool prizes
The Summer at CPL program is for all ages — and built with flexibility and fun in mind.
“For kids, we design resources, activities and programs for different ages to enjoy,” Frumkin says, “from story times for the littlest readers to STEM activities for school-aged children.”
As they dive into summer reading, kids can:
- Track their reading goals
- Join in library activities
- Create personal challenges
“Maybe they want to read 100 books, or maybe they want to visit every CPL location,” says Frumkin (there are 81!). “We believe that giving children a choice in how and what they read and learn builds excitement and motivation.”
And when they finish? Kids who read for at least 25 days and do at least 5 activities will earn a special T-shirt. “We also offer book giveaways, activity kits and more.”
Don’t miss the June 21 kickoff events
Families can stop by any CPL branch to sign up, but its three regional libraries will host special kickoffs from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Friday, June 21, 2025. Each one is packed with themed activities, live entertainment and giveaways. Here’s what to expect:
📍 Legler Regional Library (West Garfield Park)
- Outdoor fun with a petting zoo
- Balloon animals
- Foam party and tie-dye crafts
📍 Woodson Regional Library (Washington Heights)
- Dinosaur fossil dig
- Giant dino games
- Butterfly release
📍 Sulzer Regional Library (Lincoln Square)
- Firefly Family Theatre experience
- Live reptiles
- Drag Story Time
“There will be animals — even dinosaurs — camp songs, dancing and more,” Frumkin says. “We’ll have special giveaways to get everyone ready for a summer filled with reading, nature and play.”
Nature-themed fun, all season long
The 2025 theme — “Growing Minds, Going Green” — is bringing the outdoors into every branch, with help from partners like Lincoln Park Zoo, Openlands and the Art Institute of Chicago.
“When children sign up for Summer at CPL, they will get a summer activity guide that has tons of family nature activities, like birdwatching and making healthy smoothies,” Frumkin says.
Nature exploration continues at every branch. “Kids can take part in nature play, recycled art making, tree identification and more.”
Plus, The Artist’s Studio at the Library, inspired by nature and artist Hale Woodruff, invites kids of all ages to explore color blending and create landscape drawings with oil pastels.
Easy to join — and designed to fit any schedule
Families can drop into kickoff events on June 21 or RSVP online. Pop by one or all three locations. And if you miss the big day? That’s OK, too!
“My favorite part is how many programs there are all around the city,” Frumkin says. “I love to look through the event calendar on the CPL website and find programs my own kids will enjoy. My family loves to go to musical performances and live animal programs.”
Whether it’s crafts, science, theater or curling up with a book, Summer at CPL has something for every age — and all interests — this summer.
This content is sponsored by Chicago Public Library. Learn more about the Summer at CPL reading program and kickoff event at chipublib.org.
