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Through iREAD, the State Library of Louisiana provides statewide support for summer reading programs in public libraries across Louisiana.
What Is iREAD?
iREAD is a national summer reading program developed by the Illinois Library Association. Each year, it provides themed resource guides, original artwork, reading logs, and promotional materials to help libraries engage readers of all ages. Learn more about the national program at ireadprogram.org.
Why Summer Reading Matters
Every summer, many children and teens experience a “summer slide” or a loss of reading and learning momentum during school breaks. Summer reading programs are proven to help maintain skills, build enthusiasm for books, and connect families with their local libraries. By offering iREAD resources statewide, the State Library of Louisiana ensures that every public library, large or small, urban or rural, can deliver high-quality summer reading opportunities to their communities.
2026 Theme: "Plant A Seed, Read"
"Plant A Seed, Read" is rooted in the concept of farm to table: just as farms grow food that nourishes our bodies, libraries grow ideas that nourish our minds. This theme provides a rich context for exploring culture, history, science, ecology, health, and human connection through reading, programming, and discussion.
Our Role: Statewide Support
The State Library of Louisiana coordinates and provides iREAD to all public libraries in the state. Our support includes:
• Free Resource Distribution: Each year’s iREAD guide, artwork, logos, and reading logs are available to every library.
• Training & Guidance: We provide workshops, webinars, and consultation on summer reading planning.
• Coordination: We serve as the statewide contact for iREAD and manage library enrollment, timelines, and feedback.
How Libraries Can Participate
1. Register each year with SLOL to confirm participation.
2. Download Materials including guides, artwork, and activity sheets.
3. Plan Local Programs using the theme and adapt resources to your community.
4. Report Outcomes at the end of summer to help us improve statewide support.
5. Share Your Stories so we can highlight successes from libraries across the state!
Resources and Downloads
• iREAD FAQs
• Previous iREAD Themes
• Copyright and Fair Use of iREAD Materials
• For the manual download, please contact the State Library.
Contact Us
For questions or support, please reach out:
Library Development
libdev@library.la.gov
225-342-4931
iREAD Customer Service
iREAD@ila.org
The iREAD program is developed by the Illinois Library Association. The State Library of Louisiana is proud to provide free statewide access to iREAD resources for all public libraries across the state.