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About the 2026 Summits
The (FREE!) Summer Reading Summits are designed to help you in your Summer Reading planning. Whether you're putting on the finishing touches, or you're still brainstorming, you'll walk away with new programming ideas, tips, resources, and inspiration to help make your Summer Reading Program a successful one! Attendees will have a chance to share their own ideas; network with other librarians; view craft and book display ideas related to the Plant a Seed, Read theme; and more.
Back to topDates & Locations
Each event will be held from 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. A full agenda is available below.
- Tuesday, March 3: Johnston Public Library (Central District)
- Wednesday, March 4: Atlantic Public Library (Southwest District)
- Friday, March 6: Coralville Public Library (Southeast District)
- Tuesday, March 10: Oelwein Public Library (Northeast District)
- Wednesday, March 11: Clarion Public Library (North Central District)
- Thursday, March 12: Rockwell City Public Library (Northwest District)
Summer Reading Summit Registration
Join us for a Summer Reading Summit near you!
2026 Agenda
More details will be added to this page as we have them; stay tuned!
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 9:00 - 9:30 | Sign in & registration (craft samples & book display ideas available) |
| 9:30 - 9:45 | Welcome & introductions |
| 9:45 - 10:45 | Growing Readers, Growing Learners: Partnering with Iowa 4-H Clover Kids What happens when libraries and 4-H join forces? Stronger literacy outcomes for K-3 learners! Explore how Iowa 4-H Clover Kids curriculum supports this summer's "Plant a Seed and Read" theme through experiential learning that deepens comprehension and sparks curiosity. Learn about partnership possibilities, discover engaging activities for your programming, and see how we can work together to help young readers flourish. |
| 10:45 - 11:00 | Break (craft samples & book display ideas available) |
| 11:00 - 11:30 | Summer Share-Out Lightning Round Bring a summer reading success story from last year ... Maybe a revamped registration form, stand out program, ideas, engaging tracking methods, etc. This is your time to brag! |
| 11:30 - 12:15 | Summer Reading Debate Club Small prizes or grand prize drawings? Paid performers or in-house programs? Age-specific or all-ages events? Choose your camp and defend it! |
| 12:15 - 12:30 | Closing and Dismissal |
The Summits are taking place in person and will not be recorded. In case of inclement weather, a modified version of the event will be held via Zoom for that district.
Funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services
This program or resource is made possible in part by the IMLS under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by the State Library of Iowa.
1112 E. Grand Ave.
Des Moines, IA 50319