Rapides Parish Library launches 2025 summer reading program

ALEXANDRIA, La. (WNTZ) — The Rapides Parish Library has officially kicked off its 2025 Summer Reading Program, inviting readers of all ages to “get All Jazzed Up” with books, music, and community-focused activities now through July 31.

Held annually, the free program aims to keep children, teens, and adults mentally active during the summer break with reading incentives, engaging events, and a celebration of Louisiana’s rich cultural heritage.

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“This year’s theme, All Jazzed Up, celebrates Louisiana’s creativity, rhythm, and joy of learning,” said Sandie Flynn Buller, public relations and marketing manager for the library. “It’s all about inspiring lifelong readers while honoring the rhythm of discovery through books, music, and community.”

Participants can register at any Rapides Parish Library location or online through the Beanstack app, where they can log reading minutes, complete fun activities, and earn prizes throughout the summer.

Incentives vary by age group:

• Children receive beads upon registration, a certificate after 150 minutes, a toy trumpet after 500 minutes, an inflatable guitar after 1,000 minutes, and a medal at 1,500 minutes.
• Teens are entered into weekly prize drawings for items like gift cards, wireless earbuds, and portable charging banks.
• Adults have a chance to win a $50 gift card to a local business at the end of the program, with one winner selected per branch.

Library Director Celise Reech-Harper emphasized the program’s broader impact. “It’s not just about books—it’s about confidence, curiosity, and community,” Reech-Harper said. “Every minute spent reading over the summer helps students stay on track for success when they return to school.”

In addition to reading challenges, the library will host a variety of free live performances for children and teens across its branches:

• June 9–13: Hobey Ford – Master puppeteer and storyteller
• June 23–27: Didgeridoo Down Under – Australian music and storytelling
• July 7–11: Brian and Terri Kinder – Musical duo for children and families
• July 21–25: Lady Chops – High-energy percussionist and crowd favorite

A full list of summer activities and performances can be found in the RPL Monthly Event Guides, available for download at www.rpl.org, through the library’s online calendar, or on the new RPL mobile app, available in the App Store and Google Play.

This summer, Rapides Parish Library invites everyone to read, learn, and get All Jazzed Up.