June 1 marks the beginning of JMRL’s Summer Reading Challenge!

Readers of all ages are invited to participate and all you have to do is download the challenge sheets from jmrl.org/summer to get started!

There will only be two challenge sheets this year and participants can have both at the same time, and turn them in at the same time. A prize is earned after submitting each challenge sheet, along with a grand prize entry.

Young Adult Services Manager, Tim Carrier, said although this year’s challenge will be a little different, there is still plenty to enjoy and great prizes to be won.

“This year, there’s a brand new variety of challenges that give participants the chance to enjoy some great reading and other informational, educational, and recreational activities…along with a few old favorites.”

“As always, family members and friends can work on challenges together, even if it’s through virtual means,” Carrier said.

All prizes will be available for pickup when JMRL reopens to the public. However, the kids’ and teens’ prizes for completing the first sheet (beach ball for kids, pen for teens) can be picked up during curbside service with an advance phone call.

Winners of the grand prize drawings for adults, kids, and teens at each branch will receive a $50 gift card to Barnes & Noble Bookstores after the challenge ends on August 31.

Participants may enter themselves into the grand prize drawing via jmrl.org or, while JMRL is providing curbside service, they can call Central Reference at 434.979.7151 x4 for their entry.

In addition to the challenge, patrons of all ages can also enjoy JMRL’s Summer Family Performances in a virtual format.

Each week, there will be three shows with at least two different performers from June 9 to July 30.

Shows will be held on Tuesday afternoons at 2pm, Wednesday mornings at 10am, and Thursday afternoons at 2pm. Check the Program Calendar at jmrl.org/calendar.html for event details.

For more information about the Summer Reading Challenge, visit jmrl.org/summer