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The New York State Library, teaming up with more than 1,100 public libraries and neighborhood branches statewide, announced the launch of "Summer Reading at New York Libraries," the 2013 New York State summer reading program. The annual program gives children the opportunity to access the vast resources of New York’s public libraries to support their summer reading.

Through participation in summer reading programs, children can receive reading lists and participate in activities at their local libraries. At the end of the program, participants receive formal recognition for their reading achievement.

According to New York State Library officials, 1.74 million young people statewide participated in last year’s summer reading program. It is the expressed hope of program coordinators at the New York State Library, Assembly and Senate that increased attention on the benefits of summer reading will result in expanded participation. For more information about the importance of summer reading, please visit .

State Education Commissioner John B. King, Jr. noted that summer reading programs allow students to maintain educational advances when not in school. "The Board of Regents and I encourage students across New York to participate in the summer reading programs at their local public libraries. As educators across New York work to implement the new Common Core Standards, it is important that students continue to read while school is not in session,” said Commissioner King. “The Summer Reading at New York Libraries program, supported by the State Library in conjunction with our partners in the State Assembly and Senate, is a great way for students to work towards college and career readiness during the summer and stay academically sharp for the next school year."

“Every parent and teacher knows how important reading is to the educational success of all students. It is the fundamental building block for every other subject and allows children to explore the world they live in. ‘Summer Reading at New York Libraries’ provides those who participate with a great opportunity to reinforce lessons learned throughout the school year while also having some fun. I hope all parents will visit their local library to take part in the summer reading fun,” said Senator John Flanagan, Chairman of the Senate Education Committee.

"The summer reading program is a great resource for students,” said Assemblywoman Catherine Nolan, Chair of the Assembly Education Committee. “I encourage both students and parents to take advantage of this wonderful program that will operate in many libraries across the state.”

“Libraries are wonderful resources for families and I encourage everyone to visit their library this summer,” said State Senator Hugh T. Farley (R, C, I – Schenectady), chair of the Senate’s Select Committee on Libraries. “The State Summer Reading Program is a great way for students to enjoy their summer while also improving their reading and comprehension skills. Many libraries also offer special programs and events that are both fun and educational. Please support and visit your local library this summer – you’ll be glad you did!”

“The New York State Library’s summer reading program is fun for the whole family. It gives parents and children a great excuse to explore their library, enjoy great events, discover new books and improve their reading comprehension,” said Assemblyman Micah Kellner (D-Manhattan), chair of the Committee on Libraries and Education Technology.

For more information about “Summer Reading at New York Libraries”, please visit or .