Children, ‘tweens and teens can boost their reading skills and have fun earning prizes during the Pierce County Library System’s Summer Reading program, which this year features two new aspects to the program.

New this summer is a program through which kids can read down fines and also one in which teens can earn points and prizes with an online badge program modeled after video game achievements.

The Summer Reading program for children, ‘tweens and teens runs June 23 through Sept. 2 in all Pierce County Libraries.

“Summer Reading is a critical bridge from the time the school doors close for the summer and the bell rings for classes in the fall,” said Neel Parikh, executive director of the Library, in a press release. “With the fun programs for children and ‘tweens, and online gaming for teens—we have experiences for all young readers.”

This summer children can read down fines they have accrued by not returning books or other materials on time. For the first 10 hours of reading, students may earn one coupon for up to $5 off their library fines.

The Library System is offering this one-time only opportunity to reduce fines during these tough economic times and at the same time engage and involve children with reading.

Also this year, with the Teen Summer Challenge the Library will launch a game-inspired online program for teens. Challengers will earn badges and master achievements, interact with friends, read down library fines, and share reviews of books, music, movies and places.

The Pierce County Library Foundation will award an iPad to a winner randomly selected from the top point earners.

This summer’s reading theme is “Dream Big – Read!” Children, ages 3-11, can participate in a variety of events and programs at all libraries. The Library will share books and free events about airships, nocturnal animals, the solar system and more. Reading prizes include a free pass to Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium or Northwest Trek, while supplies last. Children who read 15 hours may enter a drawing to win an iPod Touch, a gift from Pierce County Library Foundation.

Children, ages 0-3, and their parents or caregivers may participate in Wee Readers to support early learning. By completing reading logs with their parents or caregivers, children may earn reading prizes.

Summer reading programs help children maintain learning skills, according to a study commissioned by the Nellie Mae Education Foundation. Researchers concluded that children learn basic skills at the same rate during the school year. They point to inequities during the summer months, as the primary factor in achievement differences. Summer reading helps kids continue to learn and hold steady in reading skills.

Sunlogics Power, Inc. is the primary sponsor for Pierce County Library’s Summer Reading program, along with donations to Pierce County Library Foundation and Friends of the Libraries.