This month ALSC hosted a Twitter chat on the topic of summer reading. One of the questions posed to children’s librarians during the session was about programs that are exclusively online. Many libraries offer online participation for adult and teen summer readers, but moving towards a solely virtual program for kids is still new territory. Questions such as limited access for some users and decreased visits to the library may be valid concerns, but with companies such as Scholastic and Barnes & Noble providing alternatives, perhaps more libraries should consider the transition.
At our library we have taken small steps each year to move the summer reading program 
completely online. This year, after careful thought and evaluation we have finally taken the leap. Fortunately after a bit of research we stumbled upon the Connecticut State Library’s Summer Reader Project, an online reading management system. This option had the most flexibility and usability, and allowed us to customize the website for our own summer reading theme. Traditionally the children’s library has designed the program independently from CSLP.
Within the first two weeks of registration there were already as many participants creating accounts as the total number from the previous year. Kids are now able to log their minutes of reading online which automatically enters them into a virtual raffle. In a community that spends a bulk of the summer traveling, this allows kids to participate even if they are at sleepaway camp or abroad.
While many libraries evaluate summer reading programs in various ways, through registrations, circulation, and program attendance, one aspect that has caught our attention is the number of online reviews posted by kids. Although this is an optional feature on the website, there are currently 135 book reviews written by participants. After years of attempting to encourage kids to write online reviews this is evidence that the website is not only easy to use, but that the kids are exploring all of its capabilities.
Not sure if you want to move to an online summer reading program just yet? Try offering some virtual elements to help boast participation while also developing 21st Century Skills.
~ Host a virtual scavenger hunt utilizing your space and collection
~ Offer prizes for online book reviews
~ App Appreciation — have kids share their favorite apps on the library’s website
~ Ask kids to submit digital photos of their summer adventures
Despite having an online program this summer many kids are still visiting the children’s library, sometimes on a daily basis. There are still as many readers’ advisory interactions and assistance needed with summer reading, but this year we’re not just the literacy experts, we’re also seeking an opportunity to engage through technology.
Please feel free to share your experiences with switching to an online summer reading program.
Claire Moore is the Assistant Head of Children’s Services at Darien Library in Darien, CT. She can be reached at cmoore@darienlibrary.org.