Make Summer Magical: Join the 2026 Summer Reading Challenge

Virginia Beach Public Library is kicking off a summer full of stories, challenges and fun for kids and teens. Starting June 8, children can chart their own adventure through the Summer Reading Challenge, while teens can jump into Teen Summer Reading and earn rewards for every book they finish. It’s the perfect way to keep young minds active and inspired all summer. 

Summer Reading Challenge

From June through August, children ages 11 and younger can truly choose their own adventure — exploring new skills, trying hands‑on activities, enjoying stories and tracking their progress to earn prizes. Whether they’re diving into chapter books, paging through graphic novels, listening to read‑alouds or engaging in creative, literacy‑focused activities, every experience helps them grow and counts toward their goals. The program is designed to be flexible, allowing each child to participate in the way that excites them most. 

Parents will find plenty to love, too. The Summer Reading Challenge helps prevent the “summer slide,” supports school readiness and gives families a simple way to build reading into their daily routine. And with free events, performances and activities happening across all library locations, there’s always something new to discover. 

Participation is easy: 

• Sign up online at VirginiaBeach.gov/Summer-Reading 
• Track reading and activities 
• Earn badges and prizes along the way 
• Celebrate your child’s progress all summer long 

Make this a summer your child will remember. Start the challenge today at VirginiaBeach.gov/Summer-Reading. 

Teen Summer Reading 2026

You can also keep your teen reading, engaged and motivated this summer with VBPL’s Teen Summer Reading program. Teens ages 12-18 can also read and log books to earn exciting prizes such a tote bag, restaurant gift card, entertainment gift card and entries into grand prize drawing for a $200 gift card from Best Buy.

Whether they’re into fantasy, graphic novels, audiobooks or anything in between, every book they finish brings them closer to rewards. It’s a fun way to build strong reading habits, explore new interests and enjoy meaningful downtime. Check the online calendar to find fun, FREE activities all summer long. 

Learn more and get started at VirginiaBeach.gov/TeenSummerReading. 

Teen Lock-In

Teens ages 12-18 are also invited to an afterhours Teen Lock-In at the Meyera E. Oberndorf Central Library on July 17. Teens can enjoy games, activities, food and plenty of fun once the library closes. Registration is required and closes July 16. 

• Summer Reading Challenge
• Teen Summer Reading
• Public Library