Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay (R,C-Pulaski) is encouraging young readers to take part in the annual New York State Assembly Summer Reading Challenge, a program designed to keep students engaged and learning while school is out for the summer. The challenge invites students to read for at least 15 minutes a day for 40 days throughout the summer. Those who complete the challenge will receive an Excellence in Reading certificate from Leader Barclay in recognition of their achievement.

“Reading each day helps children maintain the skills they developed during the school year,” said Leader Barclay. “It builds vocabulary, strengthens comprehension and fosters a lifelong appreciation for books. Even a short daily routine can make a big impact by keeping students engaged and active over the break.”

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), reading scores have dropped since 2020, with the most recent data showing declines across all levels. This is a concerning trend that highlights the importance of programs like the Summer Reading Challenge. Legislators, educators and families have a vital role to play in keeping students interested in building strong reading habits. The Summer Reading Challenge is a simple but effective way to help.

This year, Leader Barclay is partnering with local literacy-focused organizations to promote the challenge, including the Oswego Bookmobile and Imagination Library of Oswego County, both members of the Literacy Coalition of Oswego County.

The Oswego Bookmobile will be traveling across the region this summer making multiple stops in Oswego, Mexico, Pulaski, Hannibal, and Fulton. A full schedule for the Bookmobile can be found here.

“We are thrilled to showcase the new Bookmobile at our summer reading sites this year. The display shelves inside the Bookmobile create an inviting space for kids to choose their own titles and we even have a carve out for our teen readers and adults. All are welcome to explore. Thank you to Leader Barclay for encouraging families to read together,” said Susan McBrearty, President of Oswego Bookmobile.

“It’s easy to slip into summer mode but our littlest readers, from birth to age five, are eager for books and stories no matter the season. Our program encourages parents and caregivers to connect with their children by reading to them at home, at the library, at the beach or at the park. Even a few minutes each day makes a difference,” said Andrew Eusebio, coordinator, Imagination Library of Oswego County.

Local libraries also play an important role in summer reading. Libraries across the state offer summer programming, book lending, reading logs and events that help keep children interested. They’re free to use, open to all, and staffed by people who are passionate about connecting readers with books they will love. Residents can find more information about their local libraries and what they have to offer by visiting the New York State Library website.

Pairing visits to the Bookmobile or local library with the Summer Reading Challenge is a great way to make reading enjoyable and accessible. When books are accessible and reading is encouraged at home, students are more likely to stay engaged and confident heading into the next school year.

To download a reading journal or learn more about the NYS Assembly Summer Reading Challenge, visit the New York State Assembly website.