The Los Angeles Post

First Partner Siebel Newsom kicks off summer with Annual Summer Book Club

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SACRAMENTO June 10, 2024– California First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom today announced the start of this year’s First Partner’s Summer Book Club. The Summer Book Club, part of the First Partner’s California for ALL Kids initiative, is an annual program and partnership with the California State Library that aims to increase literacy and reduce learning loss by encouraging kids and caregivers to read throughout the summer.

Research has shown that many students experience summer learning loss, falling behind in reading by at least two months. And studies show that access to reading and learning opportunities between the ages of 0 and 5 are a foundational part of an individual’s future health, education, and economic participation.
“Libraries open the door to the captivating world of books and storytelling, sparking a love of reading that can last a lifetime. This year’s Summer Book Club picks tell stories of family and community, they celebrate the beauty of diversity and loving oneself, and they describe the wonders of time spent in the great outdoors. I encourage California families to review the booklist then head over to your local library to check out one of this year’s First Partner’s Summer Book Club picks.”
First Partner Siebel Newsom
What California State Librarian Greg Lucas said: “Nothing helps create more strong readers than a steady diet of books over the summer. We’re incredibly grateful that the First Partner makes this happen for so many California kids.”

This year’s book list was curated by the First Partner in partnership with librarians across the state. The books highlight themes such as navigating mental health struggles, identity and belonging, and the importance of exploration and curiosity. The books range in reading levels from preschool to high school and will be available for check-out at most public libraries across the state.

In seven libraries in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Mateo, and Solano counties, First Partner’s Summer Book Club titles are at the heart of community Book to Action programs. These programs will inspire readers to take part in community service and civic engagement activities related to the books they read.

Through California for All Kids, First Partner Siebel Newsom is working to give California children the best start in life by taking a whole child approach to their well-being.
First Partner’s Summer Book Club li