Dubois County library launches 2026 summer reading program for all ages

Families can sign up now for the Jasper-Dubois County Public Library’s 2026 Summer Reading Program by picking up paper logs at any branch or using the Beanstack app or website. The program runs from Tuesday, May 26, at 10 a.m. through Friday, July 17, at 5 p.m., and it is open to all ages, from infants to adults.

The countywide reading challenge spans all four JDCPL branches in Jasper, Ferdinand, Dubois and Birdseye, giving families a summer option that fits around work schedules, camps and school break routines. On Beanstack, readers are asked to choose the branch they use most. The library says there is no limit to the number of books a participant can read, and every book logged earns tickets that can be entered into prize drawings.

To finish the program and receive a completion prize, readers must complete at least three books and two listed activities. The library says two additional books may be substituted for the activities, offering some flexibility for younger children, reluctant readers and busy families trying to keep momentum going over the long summer stretch. Children who complete the program will also receive an invitation to a skate party on July 21 or July 22.

Prize drawings are scheduled for Tuesday, July 21, and winners will be notified by phone. Among the drawings is a Friends of the Dubois Library grand prize cash drawing, giving participants one more reason to keep track of every book and activity before the July 17 deadline.

The summer schedule adds structure beyond reading logs. JDCPL’s posted lineup includes children’s events such as Lego/Duplo Day, Pokémon Club, open play and weekly storytimes for ages 2 to 6 with an adult. Adult readers will find their own programs too, including card playing, a beekeeper meet-and-greet and an end-of-the-month book club. Animal shows, magic performances and other presenters are also planned through the season.

Library Director Christine Golden said the goal is to create memorable experiences while helping families stay connected and encouraging children to keep reading outside the classroom. That role matters in Dubois County, where summer programming can help bridge the months between school years and give children a steady routine with books, activities and familiar public spaces.

The Dubois Branch, which opened in June 2011, was created to make library service more convenient for residents in the northeast corner of Dubois County. With branches in Jasper, Ferdinand, Dubois and Birdseye, the summer reading program reaches across the county and turns the library system into a ready-made calendar of reading, prizes and family activities.