Do Public Library Summer Reading Programs Close the Achievement Gap?

Abstract

The article focuses on the study of Dominican University on public library summer reading programs from 2006-2009. The study determines the impact of public library summer reading programs on student achievement and the relationship between the intensity of service and student achievement. It says that participants of the study include students completing third grade in spring 2008, librarians rendering summer reading programs, and teachers in 11 selected sites in the U.S. Moreover, the study recommends for more investments on summer reading program particularly in public libraries, recognition of education community with the powerful role of public libraries in maintaining and increasing reading skills of children, and cooperation of public librarians with other nonprofit organizations.