Libraries and Literacy Presented by Just Right Reader

Leveraging the Power of Libraries to Expand Access to High-Quality Summer Learning

Libraries in communities across America have a unique and pivotal role in summer and out-of-school time learning and a reach that annually serves approximately 10 million children. With third-grade literacy levels serving as strong indicators of academic achievement and lifelong success, libraries are uniquely positioned to support youth of all ages. By offering summer learning programs, library summer programs advance critical 21st-century skills such as STEM/STEAM, literacy growth, workforce development, and social-emotional development—preparing youth for success in school and in life. As partners, public libraries offer rich content to other summer programs wanting to accelerate or amplify literacy and book joy.

The National Summer Learning Association’s (NSLA) Library PLC is a vibrant professional learning community that thrives on collaboration. Open to library professionals nationwide, the PLC offers a free platform for peer learning, innovation, and collaboration, enabling the field to move forward and align library summer programs with evidence-based best practices.
Through virtual meetings, ongoing training, and an annual in-person retreat at NSLA’s National Conference, the Library PLC convenes members to exchange ideas, learn from national experts, and share what works best in diverse communities.

Through virtual meetings, ongoing training, and an annual in-person retreat at NSLA’s National Conference, the Library PLC convenes members to exchange ideas, learn from national experts, and share what works best in diverse communities.

Key features of the PLC Include:

• • National Summer Book Award Sub-Committee: A dedicated sub-committee selects the prestigious National Summer Book Award, recognizing outstanding titles that inspire and engage children and families during the summer months, and which can be used by all summer providers.
  • Working Groups: Members collaborate in focused working groups to deepen learning and co-create resources, such as the Science of Reading in Summer Toolkit, which equips libraries with practical strategies to strengthen literacy outcomes.
  • Peer Learning: The PLC fosters a national network of library professionals who share best practices, ensuring that innovative approaches and successful models can be adapted by libraries everywhere.

  Planned and facilitated by NSLA Field Consultants, the Library PLC is both a source of knowledge and renewal for professionals and a driving force in expanding the reach and quality of library-led summer learning programs.