With summer fast approaching, State Senator Li Arellano, Jr is encouraging students to keep their curiosity and creativity alive through his 2025 Summer Reading Program, now open through August 1.
“I’ve seen how reading can open doors, not just to learning, but to imagination, confidence, and lifelong success,” said Senator Arellano. “Books help students explore new worlds, develop empathy, and strengthen critical thinking. Plus, what better way to reward all that learning than with free ice cream?”
The program is open to all students entering 1st through 12th grade, who are invited to read eight books of their choice over the summer. Whether it’s fiction, nonfiction, graphic novels, or biographies—every book counts.
Students who complete the challenge will receive an official certificate of recognition from the Illinois Senate and an invitation to a celebratory ice cream social hosted by Senator Arellano.
Parents can register their children by completing a short form at participating local libraries or online at: www.senatorli.com/summerreading2025.
For more information, contact Michaelene at moldenettel@sgop.ilga.gov or call 217-782-1650.