Bluegrass Connections

The Millwood Community Library in Nicholasville, Kentucky, has launched its highly anticipated Summer Bookstore Initiative, offering young readers a chance to take home a free book as a reward for their dedication to learning during the summer months. This program, designed to foster a love of reading among children and teens, provides participants with the opportunity to select a book of their choice after completing at least four weeks of the Summer Learning program. The initiative aims to keep young minds engaged during the school break while helping them build personal libraries and develop lifelong reading habits.

Library Director Samantha Chen explained that the Summer Bookstore creates excitement around reading in a way that standard summer reading programs sometimes miss. “When kids get to choose their books, they’re more invested in actually reading them,” Chen noted. “We’ve carefully curated a diverse collection that appeals to various interests and reading levels, from picture books and early readers to young adult novels and graphic novels. Our goal is to ensure every child finds something they’re genuinely excited to take home and read.”

To qualify for the free book reward, children and teens must participate in at least four of the seven weeks of the Summer Learning program. This requirement encourages consistent engagement with reading and learning activities throughout the summer months. The Summer Bookstore will be open from July 21st through July 27th, giving qualified participants a full week to visit the library and select their reward. Library staff have transformed the community room into a lively bookstore atmosphere, with colorful displays and themed sections to make the selection process both enjoyable and accessible.

“The look on a child’s face when they realize they can pick any book they want is priceless,” says Youth Services Librarian Marcus Johnson. “Last year, we had a reluctant reader who found a science fiction series in our Summer Bookstore. His mother later told us he devoured the entire series and asked for more books by the same author. That’s exactly the kind of spark we’re trying to ignite.” Parents have also praised the program, with local mother Tanya Rodriguez sharing, “My daughter looks forward to earning her book all summer. It’s become a tradition that’s helping her build her little library at home.”