News – Sheridan Media
The Sheridan County Library System’s Summer Reading Challenge has exceeded expectations and broken last year’s records, according to Community Engagement Manager Cassie Stone and Youth Services Manager Zola Shockley.
Last summer, Shockley announced the program had reached a record high in registered readers, many of whom completed their seasonal goals. Heading into this year’s challenge, she expected growth — but said she was still surprised by the scale of participation.
Z. Shockley
The program, which encourages children 11 and younger to read for 20 minutes a day, five days a week, signed up more than 550 participants in 2024. This summer’s numbers are significantly higher.
C. Stone
Studies show that students in third through fifth grade lose, on average, about 20% of their school-year reading gains and 27% of their math gains over summer break. The Summer Reading Challenge aims to counter that trend — keeping kids engaged while encouraging a lifelong love of reading.
To learn more about the The Summer Reading Challenge or other programs within the Sheridan County Library System, click here.
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Last modified: July 25, 2025