Why did we move to a points-based system this year?

There are a number of benefits to using points. Literacy-related activities make the program more accessible to a broader audience. Points encourage caregivers of young children to do early literacy activities and make it easier for them to track those activities towards their Summer Reading goal. It also removes barriers for older participants who may struggle to reach their reading goals by allowing them to attain additional points through literacy-related activities or utilizing library services. The use of points also helps better prevent the summer slide because it enhances the focus on literacy beyond just reading and builds on the summer learning model.

Another added benefit is that points allow us to increase engagement. Points are easy to explain to library explain to customers. For people who enjoy reading and logging minutes as they have always done, nothing will change. However, points create a new avenue to entice people to stay engaged and reach their summer reading goals. This helps us build a foundation for sustained growth in the program by diversifying the ways in which people can participate.