School may be ending, but Northern Virginia libraries are hosting summer reading activities to keep kids engaged. And kids can complete reading challenges and win prizes, including baseball game tickets. The Washington Nationals are once again partnering with libraries in the DMV. Fans who complete their local branch’s summer reading program are eligible to pick two complimentary upper gallery tickets for a regular season game at Nationals Park.
All libraries require those interested in participating to register to complete summer reading activities. Here are some NoVA programs:
Alexandria Library
June 1 to August 31
Alexandria Library’s reading program is called SummerQuest and offers programs for babies through adults. Rising first through 12th graders can log reading minutes and library activity time to collect free books. Once they earn enough, they can get Washington Nationals tickets and an entry into Washington Spirit tickets or gift card drawings.
Arlington Public Library
June 1 to September 2
This year’s theme for Alexandria Public Libraries summer reading program is “Plant a Seed, Read.” Readers are encouraged to complete the 2026 Summer Reading Challenge and read for 30 days. For every person who completes the challenge, the Friends of the Arlington Public Library will donate $1 to the Arlington Food Assistance Center, which provides neighbors in need with access to free, supplemental groceries. Readers can also earn prizes like free books and a pair of Nationals tickets.
Prince William Public Libraries
June 15 to August 16
At Prince William Public Libraries, this year’s summer reading program is called “Unearth a Story.” There are plans for over 250 in-person and virtual programs from mid-June through mid-August, including the on-theme dinosaur building event and an experience with life-sized dinosaurs.
Loudoun County Public Library
June 16 to August 16
Like Prince William Libraries, the nine-week “expedition” with Loudoun County Public Libraries also has a dinosaur theme. There will be activities for all ages, including pre-readers, children, teens, and adults. Those who register can complete literary challenges and see free family shows, as well as entering drawings for 34 grand prizes. Upcoming events include a Dino-Hunter Safari with David Engel and a Jurassic Magic Show with Dear Alan, Wizard of Reading.
Fairfax County Public Library
June 17 to August 19
Fairfax County offers a summer reading program for both children and adults. Starting June 10, those interested should pre-register at fairfaxcounty.beanstack.org for their summer reading adventure. Readers can earn 10 or 15 virtual badges depending on their age by reading or listening to books, reading for 20 or 30 minutes, completing activities or a combination. Once a goal is completed, readers can visit a local library branch to get prizes including drawings for Washington Spirit game tickets or Escape Room Herndon passes. Reading logs will be available once the program begins on June 17.
While not a library, a popular summer reading program has returned…
Pizza Hut
For millennials who are now parents, after visiting a local library, head to an area Pizza Hut. The pizza chain’s ‘90s era Book It! Program has returned. During June, July, and August, any child that meets parent-set reading goals can earn a free single topping personal pan pizza. Multiple area locations
Feature image, anekoho/stock.adobe.com
