Do you like to play? If so, you're already on your way to becoming an Explorer at Play this summer at your neighborhood library!
Kids 0 to 13, join the drop-in Summer Learning Challenge from June 24 to August 17. Throughout the summer, you'll get to play in all kinds of ways, at the library or on your own. CPL locations are offering hundreds of family programs, including STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) activities, live music, circus workshops and story times, as well as new books to keep kids' brains active.
Complete the Challenge
Start by printing your very own Summer Learning Challenge Log or by registering at any CPL location. Then complete the challenge:
- Read: 500 minutes or more over the summer. Read books, magazines, comics, eBooks, audiobooks or anything else you want, for at least 20 minutes a day—all reading counts!
- Discover: Complete at least one hands-on activity. Attend a library program, try a Museum of Science and Industry Summer Brain Game or other STEAM activity, visit a museum or zoo or explore something new.
- Create: Make at least one creation. Make art, write a story or design something new.
Prizes and Giveaways
Share what you read and learn to earn your book bag. Keep coming back for more chances to win prizes! Kids 0 to 5 who register receive a free book from KPMG (while supplies last). All kids can enter weekly giveaways to win books or other prizes.
Parents and Caregivers
Parents and caregivers who read, discover and create along with their children receive a small prize (while supplies last) and will have a chance to win a tech package.
About the Summer Learning Challenge
The Summer Learning Challenge is in partnership with the Museum of Science and Industry, the City of Chicago, the Chicago Department of Public Health, the Chicago Park District, Chicago Public Schools, Art Institute of Chicago, David L. Hoyt Educational Foundation, Lurie Children’s Hospital, NFL Alumni, University of Chicago Medicine and YMCA.
The 2019 Summer Learning Challenge is made possible in great part by Lead Corporate Sponsor Wintrust; the Helen M. Harrison Foundation; Macy's, Inc.; Paul M. Angell Foundation; Boeing; Conagra Brands Foundation; Cubs Charities Community Fund, a McCormick Foundation Fund; the Walter E. Heller Foundation; Dr. Scholl Foundation; the James and Madeleine McMullan Family Foundation; Northern Trust; Daniel F. and Ada L. Rice Foundation; Westinghouse Electric Company; and other generous donors to the Chicago Public Library Foundation.
