Golden State Today

California First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom announced the commencement of this year’s First Partner’s Summer Book Club. The initiative, part of the California for ALL Kids program, is an annual collaboration with the California State Library aimed at enhancing literacy and mitigating learning loss by encouraging children and caregivers to read during the summer.

Research indicates that many students experience summer learning loss, often falling behind in reading by at least two months. Studies also highlight that access to reading and learning opportunities between ages 0 and 5 significantly influences 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,” said Siebel Newsom.

California State Librarian Greg Lucas remarked, “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.”

The book list for this year was curated by Siebel Newsom in collaboration with librarians statewide. The selected books address themes such as mental health struggles, identity and belonging, and the importance of exploration and curiosity. These books cater to various reading levels from preschool to high school and will be available for check-out at most public libraries across California.

In seven libraries located in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Mateo, and Solano counties, titles from the First Partner’s Summer Book Club are central to community Book to Action programs. These initiatives aim to inspire readers to engage in community service and civic activities related to their readings.

Through California for All Kids, Siebel Newsom is committed to providing California children with optimal developmental opportunities by adopting a holistic approach to their well-being.

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