Increase Engagement in Your Community’s Summer Library Programs
Once the school year has concluded, libraries step up to provide families a place to learn, read, and play. Many libraries offer a summer reading program as well as a variety of summer programs for children and their families. However, attracting families, children and teens to participate in summer library programs is becoming more difficult. Between family vacations, competing priorities, and the convenience of information and entertainment in the palm of your hand, libraries are struggling to attract, maintain, and increase interest with their communities. As architects, it is our responsibility to understand these trends and learn about the pain points and particular needs of each community in order to help our clients. While not all solutions may be architectural or design based, we believe that architecture and design are crucial components to the growth or constriction of a library and its overall ability to meet the needs of its community. Discover how to improve and increase summer library engagement with studioTECHNE | Architects. Why are summer library programs important?
Summer library programs serve as lifelines for many families during the break from school. They combat the "summer slide," where students lose academic skills over the vacation period, by providing enriching activities that encourage reading and exploration. These programs also offer a haven for parents seeking educational and entertaining experiences for their children.
One of the most popular summer library programs hosted by libraries throughout the country are summer reading programs. Summer reading programs began in 1890 as a way to “encourage school children, particularly those in urban areas and not needed for farm work, to read during their summer vacation, use the library and develop the habit of reading.” (American Library Association).
Some of the many benefits this program has had on students throughout the decades include:
- Encouraging children to develop the life-long habit and love of reading
- Maintain skills and continued learning to prevent the “summer slide”
- Generate interest and activity with the library
Summer library programs and summer reading programs are not only for children. They are also for teens, young adults, and adults. As newer generations grow up in the information age of technology, libraries are finding it increasingly difficult to maintain the interest of these various groups. 
How to Increase Library Program Attendance During the Summer Months:
The benefits of summer library programs are evident but the path to improved engagement may not be. Here are a few ideas to improve your library’s programs and community awareness. Community Partnerships, Career Opportunities + Volunteer Opportunities
Libraries should collaborate with local schools, community centers, and businesses to promote summer library programs. Offer incentives for participation, such as prizes, discounts at partnering businesses or extra credit for students. Libraries can even offer volunteer or career opportunities for teens and young adults. Whether it's assisting with program activities, shelving books, or organizing events, volunteering fosters a sense of ownership, teaches leadership, and investment in the library's successImproved Communication
Tailor marketing and communication efforts to reach specific ages and demographics within the community. Not all programs and topics will appeal to all people. Libraries should use a customized approach to their programs, staying up to date on the latest topics and trends so they can maintain appeal to their desired patrons. Additionally, libraries can leverage social media, local publications and community events to increase visibility for their summer programs. Interactive Workshops + Theme-Based Programs
Host interactive workshops that appeal to both children and parents. These could include storytelling sessions, craft workshops, or STEM opportunities. Encourage participation by providing hands-on experiences and opportunities for creativity. In addition, libraries can organize summer programs around engaging themes that capture children's imaginations. Whether it's exploring outer space, embarking on a pirate adventure, or discovering ancient civilizations, age-appropriate, themed programs add excitement and intrigue.Involve Families + Encourage Library Participation for Every Member of the Household
Oftentimes, programming can be focused on only one demographic while leaving out others. Events may only be tailored to children while their parents are left to observe. It’s important to encourage parents and adults to model continuous learning and library participation for their children so the family as a whole can take advantage of the many services and benefits the library has to offer. Events such as movie nights, game tournaments, picnics and more - create opportunities for families to bond while enjoying the library's offerings.Make Learning Fun!
Summer reading programs are great opportunities for libraries to show just how fun learning can be. Implement reading challenges with incentives for participation and a little competition. Set achievable goals and offer rewards such as certificates, prizes or recognition ceremonies for those who meet them. Celebrate Your Unique Community While Increasing Awareness + Educational Opportunities
Celebrate the diversity of your community by hosting cultural events and festivals. Highlighting different cultures through music, dance, food, and storytelling creates inclusive spaces where families from all backgrounds feel welcome. These are excellent opportunities to introduce children to new people and experiences while educating them on another culture or background. Stay Up to Date on the Latest Technologies
Don’t let technology be the reason why families and young adults choose to skip the library. Embrace technology and leverage it as a tool to keep up with the growing needs of the community. As people learn to communicate in new ways, libraries can join these trends with virtual programs, interactive storytelling apps, or online book clubs as a way to invite and create awareness for those who may not be used to going to going to the library. Additionally, having updated and interactive technology that encourages social activities within the library can offer new opportunities for children and teens to make friends, play games together, and spend time at the library with in-person socialization rather than online communications. Create Opportunities for Honest Feedback
Continuously solicit feedback from families, children, and teens to assess the effectiveness of your programs and identify areas for improvement. Listening to their input demonstrates that their voices are valued and helps tailor future programming to better meet their needs and interests.
studioTECHNE Helps Set Libraries + Summer Programs up for Success
Many of the suggestions above can be achieved without the use of any design or architect involvement. However, some of the problems that libraries and their communities face cannot simply be fixed with a few new materials or a social media rebranding. Architect and design involvement as well as a deep understanding of the community’s needs are important to affect real change and unleash library growth.
While the above are still necessary for the success of the program, oftentimes, library buildings themselves may be stifling the potential for improvements. Not all libraries are the same. While some are bright and open with lots of natural light, others may be dark and outdated. Some libraries may not be equipped with the space for large group workshops or engaging programs for families. They may not have a large outdoor space dedicated to learning and exploration. Space inside may be strained with computer areas, books, movies, and children sections competing for space. Libraries may not have a dedicated teen area for those looking to get together and study or commune.
studioTECHNE | Architects joins librarians, stakeholders, and communities in meaningful and thoughtful discussions in order to truly understand the needs of the community and how we can best serve these areas. We integrate best practices, creativity and years of experience to reinvigorate the community and help them re-discover the love for the library.Contact studioTECHNE for More Information
If you’re interested in learning more, contact us today! Located in Cleveland, OH, we service the areas of Cleveland, OH, Columbus, OH, Cincinnati, OH and beyond. We also work in Miami, FL, Washington, DC, and Philadelphia, PA.