Summer Reading logo depicting Library's quail mascot riding a horse through a field with the text "Summer Reading Challenge".

Adventure Awaits at SLO County Libraries this Summer

Author: Erica Thatcher
Date: 6/26/2026 10:37 AM

All ages and abilities are invited to read for fun and prizes

San Luis Obispo County, CA -  SLO County readers are invited to choose their adventure in this year’s Summer Reading Challenge, at County of San Luis Obispo Public Libraries. Kids, teens, and adults can visit their favorite library between June 6 and August 8 to pick up a Summer at the Library guide that includes the Challenge and other free library activities.

Readers taking the Challenge earn a spin on a prize wheel after reading five hours, and ten hours completed gets readers a new book to keep. Anyone who completes 20 hours of reading earns a 100% recycled denim book bag.

“Summer is our time to celebrate readers and libraries. We aim to keep kids reading over the summer so that they’re ready for the upcoming school year,” said Erica Thatcher, marketing and communications coordinator for the libraries. “But we designed the reading challenge to be fun for readers of all ages and abilities. This year’s challenge includes some nostalgia we think everyone will enjoy.“

Everyone is also invited to explore a “Quail Trail” by visiting any of the 14 County Libraries. At each location, they will be able to choose an interactive adventure. Libraries will also be hosting free events including reptile shows, Festival Mozaic Young Artist Mini-Concerts, SLO Symphony Instrument Petting Zoo exhibits, and painting classes for adults.

A Quail Trail map and schedule of activities is included in the Summer Guide.

Summer at the Library will close with the annual Back-to-School Extravaganza on Saturday, August 1, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Cuesta College. Guests will enjoy free entertainment, food trucks, character meet and greets, games and more. Admission and parking are free.

“Families from all over the county enjoy learning and playing at the Extravaganza. And the Cuesta College campus is so beautiful and offers lots of places for exploring and picnicking,” said Thatcher.

The Summer Reading Challenge and library activities are free and sponsored by the San Luis Obispo County Library Foundation and Friends of the Library groups from all 14 libraries.

For more information about Summer at the Library, library cards, and County of San Luis Obispo Public Libraries locations, visit SLOLibrary.org.