What’s bright, full of imagination, and runs from June 1 through August 1, 2025? If you guessed Peoria’s Summer Reading Program, you’re spot on. Whether you’re a young bookworm or a parent looking to beat the summer slide in Peoria, AZ, the Peoria Public Library is rolling out an exciting lineup of reading, creativity, and community connection. With this year’s theme, “Color Our World,” expect a summer filled with vibrant stories, artistic flair, and opportunities that go far beyond the page.
Read Your Way to Rewards
Peoria Public Library is part of the countywide Maricopa County Reads initiative—an ambitious program running across 65 libraries in the county. This year’s community goal? A whopping 103 million minutes of reading. And guess what? Every single minute you read counts. Whether it’s a paperback, an e-book, a graphic novel, or an audiobook, each minute earns you one point.
Rack up 500 points, and you’ll earn your first milestone prize. Hit 750, and you’re in for another treat. But the real trophy comes at 1,000 points—you get to choose a free book to keep or donate a book to a youth-supporting organization. It’s reading with a purpose, and it feels good.
You can also snag points by attending fun events, both virtual and in-person, and by completing challenges and secret code hunts throughout Maricopa County. Registration opens on May 1, 2025, so mark your calendar and get ready to log those minutes at MaricopaCountyReads.org.
A Card Worth Creating
Now, for something the artists will love: the 2025 Library Card Design Contest. Kids ages 5 to 11 and teens ages 12 to 17 are invited to design their library card inspired by the “Color Our World” theme. Applications are available at your local Peoria Public Library starting June 1, 2025, or you can print one at home.
The winning design will be printed as an official library card, and the artist will take home a $100 gift card. Just remember: only hand-drawn artwork is allowed. Markers, crayons, colored pencils—whatever your medium, keep it original and colorful. Entries are due by August 1, 2025, and the winner will be revealed in September.
Young Authors, Take the Stage
Have a budding storyteller in the house? The Peoria Public Library is also running the StoryWalk® Writing Contest for kids ages 6 through 12. Aspiring authors can submit their original picture book for a chance to have it featured in all three of Peoria’s StoryWalk® locations. Not only does this offer bragging rights, but it’s a creative milestone kids will remember for years to come.
Submissions are accepted between June 1 and August 1, 2025, and applications will be available both in person and online beginning June 1. It’s a great way to encourage imagination, writing skills, and a love of storytelling in the youngest residents of Peoria.
Library Hours and Helpful Info
Ready to join in? Visit your nearest Peoria Public Library location. Regular hours are 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Whether you’re picking up books, attending an event, or dropping off contest entries, the friendly library staff is ready to help make your summer one to remember.
Why You’ll Want to Call Peoria Home
If you’re not already a Peoria local, this summer might just win you over. Peoria blends a strong sense of community with countless family-friendly programs like the summer reading series. There’s something undeniably energizing about a city that prioritizes education, creativity, and family fun. From art contests to literacy drives, Peoria knows how to turn simple activities into lasting memories. With its sunny skies and even sunnier spirit, it’s a place where families grow, ideas bloom, and summers are never boring.
Make This Summer Bright With Books and Big Ideas
This summer, don’t just beat the heat—color your world with creativity, community, and lots of reading. Whether you’re clocking minutes for prizes, designing the next official library card, or writing the next great picture book, Peoria’s Summer Reading Program gives you the chance to learn and laugh all summer long. So get your library card ready, set your reading goals, and let the pages (and ideas) fly. Happy reading, Peoria!
Source: peoria.polarislibrary.com
Header Image Source: Josh Applegate on Unsplash
