2026 Summer Reading Program

Get ready to celebrate a summer of stories, history, and hometown pride!

This year’s Summer Reading Program, Stars, Stripes, and Sunshine, invites readers of all ages to explore America’s rich history and vibrant heritage as we look ahead to America’s 250th anniversary. From the people and places that shaped our nation to the traditions that bring us together, this summer is all about discovering what makes our story uniquely American—right here at home and beyond.

Dive into the stories of our country while also uncovering the unique history and culture of Florida—from its early inhabitants and natural wonders to the communities and traditions that make the Sunshine State so special. It’s a chance to connect national history with the local stories that surround us every day.

Through books, activities, and special programs, you’ll journey across time, celebrate culture and community, and create memories along the way. Whether you’re exploring the past, enjoying hands-on fun, or simply reading under the Florida sunshine, there’s something for everyone.

Join us as we honor the past, celebrate the present, and read our way into the future—one page at a time!

Register for programs on our Events Calendar

Download a copy of the Summer Reading Event Calendar

Adult Summer Reading Program

Read and visit Hernando County Public Library locations between June 7 and July 25 to complete activities and earn entries into the end-of-summer prize drawing. Visit any branch for details or to get started.

Summer Reading Storytime

Join us this summer at your library for Stars, Stripes, and Sunshine America 250: The Florida Experience! Each week we will be exploring a new theme that makes Florida a fun place to live and play! Every week will be filled with stories, songs, and a craft based on the weekly theme. Come celebrate with us this summer!

All storytimes are from 10:30am to 11:15am

Main Branch: Mondays	East Hernando Branch: Tuesdays
Spring Hill Branch: Wednesdays

Reading with the Rays

Step up to the plate for Summer Reading with the Tampa Bay Rays!Swing by any Hernando County library starting June 6th to pick up your game card, then, as you read, track your hours by “rounding the bases.” Each base you reach earns you chances to win exciting prizes from the Tampa Bay Rays!

And don’t stop there—make it all the way to 4th base and hit a grand slam for the ultimate prize: a Tampa Bay Rays game ticket!

How to participate

Pick up your reading log, available at all libraries beginning June 6.
Bring your log back to the library each time you reach a milestone (every 250 minutes).
Earn prizes at each level and receive raffle tickets for bigger rewards.
Keep going up to 1,000 minutes for the full set of prizes and entries.
Limit one prize/ticket per completed log
Raffle winners will be selected at the end of the Summer Reading program on August 1st.