06/16/2026
๐บ๐ธโ๏ธ๐ Celebrate Summer Reading and America's 250th Birthday! ๐โ๏ธ๐บ๐ธ
As our nation prepares to celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America, this summer is the perfect opportunity to help children discover the stories, heroes, and history that shaped our great country.
Reading just 20 minutes a day can help students maintain and strengthen their literacy skills while fostering curiosity, imagination, and a love of learning. Why not combine reading with patriotism and make this summer a journey through America's past and future?
โญ Summer Reading Challenges
๐ Second Lady Usha Vance's Summer Reading Challenge
Students in grades K-8 are invited to read 12 books this summer, earn a certificate, and have the opportunity for special recognition. https://www.whitehouse.gov/read/
๐ Local Summer Reading Programs
โข Boise Public Library Summer Reading Programhttps://www.boisepubliclibrary.org/summer
โข Meridian Library District Summer Reading Programhttps://www.mld.org/summer
โข Nampa Public Library Summer Reading Challengehttps://nampalibrary.org/sr2026/
โข Kuna Library Summer Reading Programhttps://kunalibrary.libcal.com/event/16887075
๐ฒ Fun Family Reading Adventures
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Family read-aloud nights
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Backyard book campouts
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Patriotic book and movie nights
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Library scavenger hunts
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Audiobooks during summer road trips
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Reading bingo challenges
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Visit local historical sites and read about them together
๐บ๐ธ Explore Idaho's History and Government
As part of America's 250th celebration, take a family field trip to:
๐๏ธ The Idaho State Capitol Building in Boise
๐๏ธ The Idaho State Museum
๐๏ธ The Old Idaho Penitentiary
While visiting the Capitol, be sure to explore the exhibits and displays highlighting Idaho's role in our nation's history, the legislative process, and the principles of representative government. Families can learn about Idaho's statehood, view historical artifacts, and discover how citizens participate in preserving our freedoms.
After your visit, encourage your child to read a book about American history, government, or one of our Founding Fathers and share what they learned with family and friends!