Summer reading has returned to Jackson County libraries

Ashland.news staff report

Jackson County Library Services (JCLS) launched its annual summer reading program for all ages Sunday, June 1. The Beanstack Summer Reading Challenge continues until Aug. 31.

The summer reading theme this year is “Embrace the Wild.” Brystan Strong, programs coordinator at JCLS, describes it as “embracing the wild-erness, embracing the wildness of ourselves, embracing the wild frantic feeling of reading as much as you can, and embracing the wild carefree fun of the summer months.”

To take part, register through the Beanstack app at jcls.beanstack.org.

Participants can use the app to record books read or minutes spent reading to earn unique virtual badges. Paper reading logs are also available at branches. 

Additionally, throughout the summer, JCLS is hosting numerous free themed events for all age groups with everything from music and movement, learning to tie paracord knots and bracelets, creating a wilder landscape for your home, to learning about beavers with the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife.

If unsure which events to attend or want to see what events are happening at a local library branch, check out the 2025 Summer Event Guide. This 48-page bilingual guide outlines all the activities going on throughout the entire summer.

The JCLS full calendar can be found at jcls.libcal.com. 

More information on Embrace the Wild can also be found at jcls.org/srp.

Source: JCLS news release. Email Ashland.news at [email protected].