Why should schools send a library-focused summer newsletter?

Public libraries offer the most accessible, highest-quality, free summer learning resource available in most communities, yet many families with children who need it most do not use it regularly. A school newsletter that gives families specific library information, including address, hours, how to get a card, and what the summer reading program involves, closes the gap between awareness and action.

How do families get a library card if they do not have one?

Most public libraries issue cards to children and adults who provide a name, address, and in some systems a phone number or email. Many libraries do not require a fee. Some issue digital-only cards for immediate online access. A newsletter that gives the address, the card requirements, and the hours removes every barrier except actually going, which is the most important one to remove.

What is the summer reading program and how does it work?

Most public libraries run a summer reading program from June through August that encourages children and teens to read independently. Participants track reading time or books read, earn prizes or incentives at milestones, and complete the program by logging a final total. Programs are typically free, open to all ages, and available for enrollment at the library's circulation desk or online.

What else does the public library offer over summer beyond books?

Most public libraries offer free summer programming including story times, STEM workshops, art activities, technology classes, teen programming, and family movie nights. Many libraries offer free access to digital resources including ebooks, audiobooks, research databases, and language learning apps. A newsletter that lists even three of these beyond-books offerings gives families a richer picture of what the library visit is worth.

How does Daystage help schools connect families to the library over summer?

Daystage lets schools send a library-focused summer newsletter with embedded library branch maps, links to the summer reading program registration, and a direct link to request a library card. Schools can send the newsletter at the start of summer and again in mid-July when participation in summer reading programs tends to drop, supporting two key enrollment and retention moments.

Summer Library Visit Newsletter: Get Your Library

The public library is the best free summer learning resource most families have access to, and many families do not use it. For some, the barrier is unfamiliarity. For others, it is not knowing what the library offers beyond books. A summer library newsletter that tells families specifically what is there and exactly how to access it removes the gap between intention and actual library visits.

Give the library's address, hours, and how to get there

The newsletter should include the physical address of the nearest library branch, the summer hours including any weekend or evening availability, and if relevant, directions by public transit or bus. Families who are new to the area or who have never visited the library need this information to take the first step. A QR code that opens the library's Google Maps page reduces the friction of that first visit to a single click.

Explain the summer reading program step by step

Many families have heard the words "summer reading program" but do not know how it works. The newsletter should explain: where to sign up, whether it can be done online or only in person, how participants track their reading, what the incentives or prizes are, what the completion goal is, and when the program ends. A family who understands the process from enrollment to completion is far more likely to follow through than a family who received a general recommendation to participate.

List what the library offers beyond books

The library's summer programming often goes unused because families do not know it exists. A brief section listing the library's free summer events, including story times, STEM workshops, teen programs, and movie nights, with specific dates and how to register, turns the library from a book destination into a community hub. For families who need structured summer programming beyond what the school offers, library events may be the most accessible option.

Make getting a library card the primary call to action

For families who do not have a library card, getting one is the single most important step. The newsletter should state clearly what is needed: show up at the circulation desk with your name and address, or in many systems complete an online form and pick up the card. Many libraries issue instant digital cards that work immediately for ebook and audiobook access. Tell families that the card is free, takes five minutes to get, and opens access to thousands of books and resources. Make this the closing ask.

Highlight digital library resources for families with limited transportation

Not every family can easily visit a physical library branch. Most public libraries offer free access to Libby, OverDrive, Hoopla, Kanopy, and similar platforms through which cardholders can borrow ebooks, audiobooks, digital magazines, and streaming films at no cost. A newsletter that names these apps and explains that they work on any smartphone or tablet makes the library's collection accessible to families who cannot make it to a branch in person.

A sample library summer newsletter section

Format for the library information section:

Nearest branch: [Name] at [Address]
Summer hours: Monday to Saturday [hours], Sunday [hours or closed]
Getting a card: Stop by with your name and address. Free and takes 5 minutes. Or sign up online at [link].
Summer reading program: Sign up at the desk or at [link]. Read any books, track your time, earn prizes. Program ends August 15.
Free events this summer: [3 to 5 specific events with dates]
Free digital access: Download the Libby app, log in with your library card, borrow ebooks and audiobooks for free.

Send a mid-summer reminder

The first library newsletter in late May or early June reaches families as summer begins. A second brief newsletter in mid-July, noting how many weeks of the summer reading program remain and reminding families of upcoming library events, sustains engagement at the point when many summer activities have run their course and families are looking for things to do. Two library newsletters produce meaningfully more library visits than one.

Connect library reading to the fall classroom

A final sentence in the newsletter that connects summer reading to the fall gives the recommendation academic gravity: "Students who read at least four books over the summer typically start the year at a stronger reading level than those who did not. Every book your child reads at the library this summer is an investment in their September." That connection makes the library feel relevant to families who want school success, not just families who already love reading.

Summer Library Visit Newsletter: Get Your Library Card