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Maryland Libraries 'Unearth a Story'​​

Summer reading and learning programs kick off in public libraries across the state

BALTIMORE — The Maryland State Library Agency (MSLA) is pleased to announce that summer reading and learning programs are beginning at public libraries throughout the state. The theme this year is Unearth a Story. Libraries are offering a variety of programs, incentive-based reading challenges and access to knowledge about archaeology, paleontology, dinosaurs and local history.

“When school is out, the library is in,” said Maryland State Librarian Morgan Lehr Miller. “Summer reading and learning programs are not only accessible to every family in the community, but they are also proven to combat out-of-school learning loss —  known as the ‘summer slide’ —  and help students return to school in the fall ready to succeed. I encourage Marylanders to take advantage of these free, fun and engaging learning experiences all summer long.”

Maryland is part of the national Collaborative Summer Library Program (CSLP), which determines the theme of summer library programs across the country. This year’s theme underscores the joy of discovery in reading. It also highlights the fact that every community has stories to be discovered and shared through books, programs and local knowledge.

The Maryland State Library Agency coordinates statewide partnerships to support summer library programs. These programs are created independently by public library systems to encourage reading and provide enrichment opportunities for Maryland communities. More than 124,000 youth participated in Maryland summer library programs in 2025.

Among the many programs being offered this summer are dinosaur-themed Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) labs in Dorchester County, a mock archaeological dig for young children in Queen Anne’s County and a dinosaur dance party in Caroline County. The Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled, a division of MSLA, has a slate of programs in store as well, including reptile shows, archaeology talks, tactile coding, a storytime and other events. 

As a statewide summer reading partner, the Maryland State Fair donated family passes and bookmarks to Maryland public libraries to incorporate into their summer programs this year. The State Fair also hosts the award-winning Barnyard Bedtime Tales program each weekend during the fair, when children and adults are encouraged to attend and read a bedtime story to the animals. 

The Baltimore Orioles​, the Maryland Science Center and the National Aquarium​ are summer program partners as well and have donated materials, including tickets and bookmarks as incentives to youth to participate in programs throughout the state. These programs provide youth with opportunities to enjoy sports, nature and STEM activities. 

The Natural History Society of Maryland is offering paleontology talks at public libraries and free admission to its museum.

Marylanders can learn more about the fun and free programs this summer by visiting their local libraries in person or online. To find your local library system, visit the MSLA website.

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