Boston Public Library reaches goal of reading one million minutes this summer

Boston Public Library announced today that Boston readers read 1.6 million minutes so far this summer, surpassing the citywide goal of inviting Bostonians of all ages to read a collective one million minutes from June through August. 

“Bostonians’ love of reading is evident, and we are thrilled that so many patrons are sharing their favorite summer reads with us,” said Michael Colford, Director of Library Services for Boston Public Library. “We encourage readers to continue submitting minutes through August to see how far we can go!”

Boston Public Library continues to facilitate group “read-ins” at its 26 locations, welcomes authors to read from their books, and encourages independent reading all summer long. Any kind of reading counts -- novels on the beach, newspapers on the T, or reading even e-mail at work. Listening counts as well, whether it’s a child at a story time, or listening to a favorite audiobook or podcast. Details on how to submit minutes can be found via www.bpl.org/bostonreads. Follow Boston’s progress in reaching one million minutes, invite friends and family to join, and tell us what you’re reading on social media with #BostonReads2018.

Summer reading events continue through August, as children explore the theme “Libraries Rock!” through programs from Mariana Iranzi Bilingual Concerts, New England Aquarium, Historic New England, Alex and the Kaleidoscope Concerts, Museum of Science, ReadBoston Storymobile, Countdown to Kindergarten, and more. Teens can learn how to Cook with Miss Debbie and Breakdance with the Floor Lords, just for example.

In addition, adults may fill in a Bingo card, available at all BPL locations, or by downloading and printing the card with what you read, did, or discovered through Friday, September 7. Drop your completed card off by closing time on Friday, September 7 at any BPL location, or post a picture of the card to Instagram or Twitter using @bplboston or the hashtag #BostonReads.

Libraries Rock! is sponsored by the Boston Public Library and the Citywide Friends of the Boston Public Library.

About BOSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY

Boston Public Library provides educational, cultural and civic enrichment, free to all, for the residents of Boston, Massachusetts and beyond, through its collections, services, programs, and spaces. Established in 1848, the Boston Public Library is a pioneer of public library service in America. It was the first large free municipal library in the United States, the first public library to lend books, the first to have a branch library, and the first to have a children’s room. As a City of Boston historic cultural institution, Boston Public Library today features a Central Library, twenty-five branches, a map center, business library, archival center; extensive special collections of rare books, manuscripts, photographs, and prints; and rich digital content and online services. The award-winning renovation of the Central Library in Copley Square, completed in 2016, together with new, renovated and historic branches, provide a transformed library for the next generation of users. Boston Public Library enriches lives, hosting thousands of free educational programs and exhibitions, and provides free library services online and in-person to millions of people each year.  To learn more, visit bpl.org.