Peninsula Summer Learning Challenge Goes Digital

SAN MATEO, CA -- The county's Summer Learning Challenge, hosted by the libraries, is in full-swing with a new tool: Beanstack. The online service allows participants to track their reading goals, receive reading lists and earn badges by attending library events.

“Last year over 82 percent of the county’s youth population participated in the Summer Learning Challenge, and we are hoping to increase that number this year with the rollout of our new online tool,” said Katie Woods, communications manager of San Mateo County Libraries. “Not only does the Summer Learning Challenge assist kids in maintaining and enhancing their educational skills over the summer, it also gives children the boost they need to feel more prepared for the next school year.”

To curb summer learning loss, the Summer Learning Challenge encourages youth to read books, learn new skills and participate in high-quality, interactive educational programs. These free programs range from science workshops to baby sign language and vary by location, county officials said.

To sign up, participants can pick up a reading log available at any public library, or register online at summerlearners.org.

To get them started, every child that signs up will receive a free book. Children who visit the libraries this summer will also be eligible to enter a weekly raffle to win prizes, such as museum passes, tickets to sporting events, and gift cards. Youth participants that complete the program online or in person can enter a drawing to win a $1,000 college scholarship.

The Summer Learning Challenge is coordinated by San Mateo County Libraries and offered in partnership with the city libraries of Burlingame, Daly City, Menlo Park, Redwood City, San Bruno, San Mateo and South San Francisco. Recognizing the importance of early learning, the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors provides funding for the Summer Learning Challenge from Measure K, a half-cent, voter-approved sales tax extension for local needs.

To take the challenge or learn more about the libraries’ free summer programs, visit summerlearners.org or any public library in San Mateo County.

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