South Queens, NY – New York State Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato is inviting students from Ozone Park, Howard Beach, Broad Channel and across the Rockaway Peninsula to explore the world of books by participating in the New York State Assembly’s annual Summer Reading Challenge, held in partnership with New York State Libraries. The theme for this year’s challenge is “Adventure Begins at Your Library” which celebrates the journeys books can take readers on - whether transporting us to a different world or delving into history. Those who complete the challenge will be awarded a State Assembly Excellence in Reading Certificate to celebrate their achievement.

The Summer Reading Challenge asks children to read for at least 15 minutes a day for a minimum of 40 days during July and August. Children can read by themselves or with a partner and mark the days they read on the calendar provided. After marking 40 days or more they can submit the calendar by mail, email or in person to Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato’s office. Students will be awarded at a ceremony at their schools where they shall receive their certificate.

“Despite living in an increasingly audiovisual world reading remains, and will always be, an incredibly vital skill to navigate the modern world and find enrichment in life,” said Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato. “Reading during summer break is especially beneficial for children to ensure they don’t fall behind in the next school year. Reading expands and improves vocabulary, comprehension and writing ability, along with being a fun activity you can do almost anywhere.”

Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato has presented the annual Summer Reading Challenge since first elected in 2017 and has had hundreds of children participate each summer. The Assemblywoman’s office has dropped off summer reading at every school in the 23rd Assembly District. You can also go to a local library to pick up a form or reach out to Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato at Amatos@nyassembly.gov or call her office at 718-945-9550.