Summer Reading Program
Check back in 2026 for more bookish fun for everyone!
In 2025, 883 participants logged 546,558 minutes of reading during the Summer Reading Program.
2026 Young Writers and Illustrators Contest
Youth ages 5–10 are invited to write and illustrate a short story with the prompt “One day, I planted a magical seed and…” — Stories may be brief and should reflect the age, experience, and abilities of the child. Completed entries must be submitted in person by Saturday, January 17, 2026, at any Josephine Community Library branch.
Where can I get a story and art template and the submission form?
- Pick up the template and permission forms at any branch starting Friday, Jan. 2.
- Templates and permission forms are also available at participating downtown Grants Pass businesses, including Indy Jo, Bella Luna Boutique, House of Glory, The Lonely Pine, and Mystic Valley Farm Tea Shop.
What happens to the stories?
All submitted stories and artwork will be displayed during the 2026 Summer Reading Program as part of a community art and writing show at each of the library’s four branches. The display will celebrate the creativity, voices, and storytelling skills of participating children throughout the summer.
Up to 15 entries will be selected for publication as part of the 2026 Community Storybook Walk, an outdoor reading experience that places illustrated story pages along a walking route, inviting families to read together as they move from one display to the next.