Kenosha Public Library’s Gone Readin’ Summer Initiative

Kenosha Public Library Summer Reading Starts Now

Kenosha Public Library is inviting the whole community to slow down and read this summer — and they’re making it worth your while. The library’s Gone Readin’ initiative runs throughout the summer of 2026, offering reading programs for all ages, weekly book drops around Kenosha, a new personalized recommendation service, and a party to close it all out on Friday, August 28.

“Our goal this summer is simple: make reading a celebration,” says Library Director Sarah Townsend. “We’re inviting everyone to remember that reading isn’t work, it’s fun, and a great way to relax and escape. Join us at the library this summer; we can’t wait to celebrate every page turned with our community.”

Here’s everything happening as part of Gone Readin’ this summer.

Reading logs are available now for all ages — kids, teens, and adults. Pick one up at any KPL branch or download and print your own at https://mykpl.info/gonereadin.

Kenosha Public Library operates branches across the city:

Northside Library (1500 27th Ave.)

Southwest Library (7979 38th Ave.)

Simmons Library (711 59th Place)

Uptown Library (2419 63rd St.)

All branches are participating in Gone Readin’.

Every week, KPL will spotlight a community member as a Featured Reader and distribute free copies of that person’s recommended title at locations throughout Kenosha — coffee shops, restaurants, stores, parks, and more. You won’t know where they’ll show up, so keep your eyes open.

It’s a simple, genuinely fun idea: real Kenosha residents recommending books they love, with free copies turning up in unexpected places around town. If you find one, it’s yours.

KPL launched a new service called Bookmatch in mid-June. Patrons fill out a short form describing what they like to read, and professional library staff put together a personally curated list of recommendations just for them.

For anyone who has ever stood in the stacks not knowing where to start, Bookmatch is a free, human-curated answer.

All KPL branches will have reading displays throughout the summer featuring book recommendations from multiple angles — staff picks, partner booklists, community featured reads, and curated displays tied to the Gone Readin’ theme. Ask any staff member for a recommendation in person, or browse the lists online to build out your summer reading list.

KPL is also inviting readers to share their summer reading moments on social media. Whether you’re settled into a hammock somewhere up north or stretched out on a Lake Michigan beach, tag your photos with #GoneReadin and tag @mykpl on Facebook or Instagram. The library wants to see where reading takes Kenosha this summer.

Gone Readin’ wraps up with a community celebration on Friday, August 28. Details are still being finalized, but the date is set — add it to your calendar. Check https://mykpl.info/gonereadin for updates as the summer progresses.

For more information on all things Gone Readin’, visit https://mykpl.info/gonereadin or call KPL at (262) 564-6100.

Since 1900, Kenosha Public Library (KPL) has inspired learning, strengthened neighborhoods, and kept community members curious by welcoming all people and offering equal access to information, entertainment, and knowledge through innovative services, programs, and technology. Through its 5 branches and 2 mobile libraries, the Library provides free access to a rich collection of materials, both physical and digital, and presents the highest quality author discussions, exhibits, and programs for children, teens, and adults. For more information, please call (262)564-6100 or visit mykpl.info. To follow KPL on social media, visit us on Facebook (@mykpl.info), or Instagram (@mykpl).

<p>The post Kenosha Public Library’s Gone Readin’ Summer Initiative first appeared on Kenosha.com.</p>