Gloucester, MA|Local Classified|Other|
Sawyer Free Library Invites Families to Grow, Read, and Explore During Summer Reading Program

GLOUCESTER, MA — The Sawyer Free Library invites the community to join the 2026 Summer Reading Program: Plant a Seed, Read! This year’s theme is all about cultivating a love of reading with a fun, nature-inspired twist. Just as gardens grow food to nourish our bodies, reading nourishes our minds. With a vibrant lineup of free events, the program encourages readers of all ages to branch out, further their imaginations and discover new worlds.
"Our Summer Reading Program is designed to connect our community through the joy of stories," said Meg O'Neill, Head of Youth Services. "Our programs spark curiosity, inspire creativity, and help children, tweens and teens discover new interests while building a lifelong love of reading. We invite families to join us throughout the summer to plant the seeds of discovery through memorable experiences that foster learning and fun."
Designed to combat the "summer slide"—the loss of reading and comprehension skills that occurs when school is out—the Sawyer Free Library’s Summer Reading Program provides a fun, structured environment to keep children’s minds active. By incentivizing daily reading, the library encourages the joy of reading and brings families together for social connection.
Assistant Director Lisa Ryan brought the excitement directly to local students, visiting all four elementary schools for a series of high-energy assemblies. Ryan highlighted the vital importance of summer reading, previewed the lineup of engaging programs, and introduced a curated collection of popular books tailored for students in grades K–6.
About the Sawyer Free Library
The Sawyer Free Library has served Gloucester residents of all ages for over 175 years, providing equal access to resources that meet the community’s evolving cultural, educational, and informational needs. Now open in its newly renovated, expanded, and modernized home, the Library is entering an exciting new chapter—enhancing its ability to offer innovative resources, nurture creativity, and foster community connection.
Media Contact:
Christine Armstrong
Sawyer Free Library
646.644.5037