Get ready for San Diego's awesome summer reading programs! Yes, kids are taking a break from school, but that doesn't mean they need to (or should) stop reading. Now is their chance to visit the library, choose books that look fun and interesting and get rewarded for completing various goals. Plus, any type of reading helps prevent summer slide. Here are San Diego's best summer reading programs, where kids (and teens in some programs) can earn prizes while having fun and reading!
Plant a Seed, Read
Local residents of all ages are encouraged to sign up for Plant a Seed, Read: San Diego Public Library’s 2026 Summer Reading Program, which runs from June 1–Aug. 15.. Prizes are awarded for books read, hours spent reading or activities completed. Prizes must be picked up by Aug. 31. Kids ages 0–17 who register by June 30 will receive a free general admission ticket to the 2026 San Diego County Fair (while supplies last; valid to use Friday–Sunday). Register and learn more at www.sandiego.gov/public-library/kidsandteens/summerreading.
Summer at Your Library
Register for the San Diego County Library reading program online and complete a total of 10 books, reading hours, book reviews and/or learning activities to earn a prize from one county branch location. Runs June 1- Aug. 31. All ages are welcome to participate. www.sdcl.org/summer.
Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program 2026
Readers in grades 1-6 are invited to do the following: 1) Read any eight books this summer and record them in the B&N Summer Reading Journal (find it HERE), 2) Bring your completed journal to a Barnes & Noble store between July 1–Aug. 31, 2026, and 3) Choose a free book from the B&N curated book lists. For more information, visit the Barnes & Noble website HERE.
Pizza Hut's BOOK IT! Summer of Stories Program
Use the BOOK IT! mobile app to set goals, track progress and redeem rewards. During June, July and August, children in grades Pre-K–6th who meet their reading goals can earn a free Pizza Hut single topping Personal Pan Pizza from participating locations. www.bookitprogram.com
Chuck E. Cheese "Books I've Read" Program
Track completed books on the printable Chuck E. Cheese chart (link follows). Read, log and rate 10 books, get a parent or teacher signature, then take the completed chart to Chuck E. Cheese to receive 10 free play points as a reward. www.chuckecheese.com/activities-and-downloads/books-ive-read/
Do you know another summer reading program for kids that is not listed here? Please let us know at
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Updated May 2026
