Dane County Library Service's Summer Reading Program Inspires Youth to Read and Connect

June 25, 2025
execmedia@danecounty.gov, (608) 800-1127
County Executive, Library

DANE COUNTY — Dane County Library Service continues to inspire a love of reading through its Summer Reading Program, encouraging youth across the county to set reading goals and celebrate their progress in a fun, engaging way.

Kids sign up by writing their name on a star that’s affixed to the ceiling of the Bookmobile. They choose their own goals—whether it’s reading 20 minutes a day, reading to a sibling each night before bed, finishing a chapter book in a week, or listening to an audiobook during a family road trip. Each week, participants return to the Bookmobile to check in, add a sticky star to their name, receive a packet of coupons, and pick out a prize.

“The Dane County Library Service provides countless services to ensure that all of Dane County’s residents have access to reading materials,” said County Executive Melissa Agard. “The Summer Reading Program not only promotes literacy—it also brings joy, creativity, and community to neighborhoods across our county. This is what local government should be: responsive, fun, and focused on helping kids thrive.”

In addition to reading, the program features weekly crafts at every Bookmobile stop, which help engage reluctant readers and build a sense of community. For example, kids recently decorated boxes with gems, markers, and washi tape. This week, they’re designing festive visors for the 4th of July.

“Our Summer Reading Program is about much more than books—it’s about building confidence, imagination, and relationships,” said Tracey Herold, Director of Dane County Library Service. “Every star on the ceiling of our Bookmobile tells a story of a young person setting goals and making reading part of their everyday life.”

This summer, the Bookmobile will make stops in Dane, Cottage Grove, Brooklyn, Madison, Windsor, Maple Bluff, and many more between June 16 and August 9, 2025.

For the full schedule for the Bookmobile, visit HERE.