Kids Shine in Library's Summer Reading Challenge

Posted On: August 5, 2025

Volusia County Public Library is thrilled to recognize more than 100 young readers in Pre-K through grade 5 who achieved platinum reading status during the library system’s 2025 Celebrate Summer! reading challenge.

To earn this highest honor, children were required to read at least four days a week for all 10 weeks of the library’s summer reading challenge, demonstrating dedication, consistency, and a love for learning. In addition to achieving their weekly reading goals, platinum readers also completed at least two hands-on learning activities that encouraged exploration, creativity, and community engagement.

They also conducted ice cream polls and graphed the results, supported a greener Volusia by planting native seeds and watching them grow, created imaginative maps and interviewed family members, attended educational library programs, and practiced kindness through thank-you cards and helpful actions

“Children who participated in these activities weren’t just reading – they were developing real-world skills, engaging with their communities, and applying critical thinking in fun, meaningful ways,” said Volusia County Public Library Director Lucinda Colee. 

Numerous studies show that children who do not read over the summer may experience a decline in reading ability — a learning loss often referred to as the “summer slide.”

Summer reading programs like Celebrate Volusia! help maintain and even boost literacy skills during the break from school. 

To learn more about upcoming Volusia County Public Library events, visit the library’s website at www.volusialibrary.org.