Grand Rapids is Jumping With Kids’ Summer Reading Programs
Summer reading programs are one of my kids’ favorite summer things to do.
On the last day of school we walk to our local GRPL branch to sign up for the summer reading program. (And check out a pile of books.)
Then they come home and hop in their hammocks and get to work.
Even if your kids aren’t book obsessed like mine, you can still participate in several summer reading programs around Grand Rapids. The prizes might just be the motivator to keep them engaged until school resumes.
Favorite Grand Rapids Summer Reading Programs
You might think that kids can only participate in one summer reading program at a time. But that’s not the case!
Kids can participate in as many different programs as they want.
Most libraries don’t require you to be a patron to participate, but double check before registering.
Year after year, families return to these top three reading programs:
| Program | Runs | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Kent District Library (KDL) Summer Reading Program | June 2 – August 8, 2025 | Ages: All ages Prizes: Free book (adults get a KDL set of playing cards) Entry to win Meijer gift cards or gift baskets |
| Grand Rapids Public Library (GRPL) Summer Reading Program | June 2 – August 30, 2025 | Ages: All ages Prizes: Mini-prize and grand prize |
| Schuler Books Summer Reading Club | May 31 – August 31, 2025 | Ages: Grades K – 8 Prizes: TBA |
More 2025 Grand Rapids Summer Reading Programs
Summer reading programs aren’t just limited to the bigger libraries. Smaller libraries and even restaurants have summer reading programs, too.
Use our handy list below to find more summer reading programs near you.
| Location | Runs | Ages |
|---|---|---|
| Allendale Township Library | June 1 – August 9, 2025 | Grades K – 8 (get a free book) |
| Barnes and Noble (English) (Español) | Coupon valid July 1 – August 31, 2025 | Grades 1 – 6 (get a free book) |
| Chuck E. Cheese Reading Rewards (English) (Español) | Year Round | All ages (earn 10 tokens) |
| Coopersville Library | June 9 – TBA 2025 | All ages |
| Gary Byker Memorial Library of Hudsonville | TBA (usually dates in June – August) | All ages |
| Georgetown Township Public Library (Jenison) | June 2 – TBA 2025 | All ages |
| Hudsonville Community Fair | June 1 – August 20, 2024 | Ages 2 – 15 |
| Kent County Youth Fair | June 1 – July 31, 2025 | Ages 12 and under (earn free rides) |
| Nothing Bundt Cakes | Year Round | Ages Pre-K – 5th grade (get a free Bundlet) |
| Pizza Hut Camp Book-It Program | June 1 – August 31, 2025 | Ages Pre-K – 6th grade |
Did We Miss Any?
Did we miss your favorite summer reading program? Let us know in the comments below!
Rolling Rabbits bookstore in Byron Center;
Herrick District Library in conjunction with Bluestocking bookstore & Reader’s World in Holland
Baker Bookhouse
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