CLAYTON – Hocutt-Ellington Memorial Library is closing the book on its 2024 Summer Reading Challenge, which ran from June 15 through July 31, and staff are thrilled to celebrate with everyone who made this summer a real page-turner.
Participants started their adventure by registering and tracking their progress online. They logged their reading minutes or books, earning digital badges for milestones and virtual raffle tickets for a chance to win prizes.
By the Numbers
· More than 850 individuals joined the Summer Reading Challenge.
· There were 10,500+ visits to the library during this time.
· Around 550 people became new library cardholders.
Reading Achievements
· The library checked out nearly 27,500 books and eBooks to patrons.
· Together, participants logged more than 123,000 reading minutes.
· 133 super readers, most of whom were children, doubled the required reading minutes for their age group.
“Over the summer, students can lose up to two months of reading skills, a phenomenon known as the ‘summer slide,’ which impacts academic progress,” said Interim Library Director Mel Poole. “Our Summer Reading Challenge aimed to combat this by encouraging learners of all ages to keep their minds active. By participating, children, teens, and adults stayed engaged, fostered a love for reading, and are now better prepared to return to school.”
This year’s theme, “Adventure Begins at Your Library,” invited families to embark on an exciting journey of reading and learning. Featuring interactive elements for the entire family, the Summer Reading Challenge created a fun and engaging experience for all ages.
“Spending time reading this summer has opened up a world of imagination, creativity, and knowledge for many,” said Youth Services Supervisor Grace Davis. “Each book has the power to transport readers to fantastical realms, introduce them to unforgettable characters and inspire new ideas. Embracing a love of reading has allowed countless individuals to rediscover the pure joy of getting lost in a great story.”
The 2024 Summer Reading Challenge has excelled thanks to the support of the Friends of the Library – Clayton, NC, a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the library and its literacy initiatives within the community.
