QUEENS, NEW YORK – Assemblymember David Weprin (D – Fresh Meadows, Richmond Hill) and Queens Library President & CEO Dennis M. Walcott encouraged all students in the community to take on the New York State Assembly’s Annual Summer Reading Challenge at the Lefferts Library branch.
The challenge is part of a larger effort to promote community literacy by a consortium of libraries across the country.
To complete the challenge children must read for a minimum of 15 minutes a day for 40 days during the summer break. This year the challenge kicked off with the theme, “Libraries Rock!” and Assemblymember Weprin encouraged students to visit their local libraries, not only to borrow books but also utilize the fantastic services offered there including: internet access, educational programs, and more.
Students are encouraged to build on the progress they made throughout the school year by reading during the summer. Those who complete the challenge using their leisure time to enhance their reading skills will mark off the days they read on a calendar that they can obtain at the Assemblymember’s office or at a library that serves Assembly District 24. Once they have completed the form, the students may return it to the Assemblyman’s office to receive an Excellence in Reading Certificate.
“Summer Reading is a great way for students to stay sharp while out of school and our local libraries provide excellent free resources for students to stay mentally engaged.” said Assemblyman David Weprin. “I’m glad to be partnering with Queens Library President and CEO Dennis Walcott, to promote the Summer Reading Challenge and to help spread the joy of reading to our wonderful students and children.”
“Studies show that the academic skills of children and teens can erode significantly during their summer vacations if they don’t stay engaged in learning,” said Queens Library President Dennis M. Walcott. “Assemblyman Weprin’s reading challenge will help young people continue to flourish while they are on break and will be a great fit with all of the special programs and events our libraries offer during the summer months.”
