Assemblyman Billy Jones (D-Chateaugay Lake) announced he’s inviting North Country children to participate in his annual Summer Reading Challenge, which is held in partnership with New York State Libraries. This year’s theme is “Tails and Tales” to encourage kids to learn more about their favorite animals and explore the world around them.

 “Summer is a great time to get together with family and play outside, but some of the best adventures can also be found in a good book,” Jones said. “Not only does reading provide a great way to help kids keep their minds active while enjoying some time off from school, but it can also expand our worlds, introduce us to new characters and inspire us in our everyday lives. My Summer Reading Challenge is a great way to foster a love of reading and ensure that kids keep learning throughout the year. I hope everyone will encourage kids to take on this challenge.”

The challenge asks children to read a book for a minimum of 15 minutes a day for at least 40 days during July and August. Children can read independently or with a partner or caregiver and mark off days on the calendar provided. Once they’ve completed 40 days or more, they submit the calendar to Jones’ office and then receive a certificate in the mail. As North Country libraries work toward fully reopening, Jones noted this challenge provides an excellent opportunity to return to these valuable community hubs.

If a child has not received a copy of Jones’ 2021 Summer Reading Challenge calendar and bookmarks from their school, these materials can be printed out by visiting his website, nyassembly.gov/mem/Billy-Jones, and clicking on the banner for the challenge.