SANTA MONICA—On Tuesday, June 9, the city of Santa Monica revealed that registration for the Santa Monica Public Library, or SMPL, 2026 Summer Reading Program will open June 13. Patrons of all ages can sign up online at smpl.beanstack.com or in person during open hours at any SMPL location.
From June 13 through August 15, registered participants can track their reading progress and earn tickets for the chance to win exciting prizes. Participants ages 4-18 can enter to win a Nintendo Switch 2, while adults ages 18+ can enter to win a Kobo eReader. Participants who register in person will also receive birthday-themed goody bags — in celebration of the Main Library’s 20th birthday — featuring surprise treats from SMPL, the Friends of the Santa Monica Public Library, and local businesses, while supplies last.
“At Santa Monica Public Library, summer reading is all about celebrating curiosity, creativity, and the joy of discovering something new,” Santa Monica Public Library Director Erica Cuyugan said. “This year’s birthday-themed program invites the community to join the celebration with books, games, hands-on activities, and memorable events for all ages.”
From 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on June 13, there will be a celebration for the Main Library’s 20th birthday. Held in the Main Library North Courtyard, 601 Santa Monica Blvd., the celebration features a magic show by David Skale, balloon twisting, and other festive activities.
Additional summer youth event highlights include:
-A Family Concert with Andrew and Polly on Saturday, June 20, from 11 a.m.-noon at the Pico Branch Amphitheater
-A Dino Chase Through Space Puppet Show on Monday, June 22, from 2:30-3:30 p.m. in the Main Library’s MLK Jr. Auditorium
-A Teen Game Night on Thursday, June 25, from 4-6 p.m. in the Main Library’s Youth Activity Room
SMPL will also host two pop-up library events this summer, including one at Pride on the Promenade on Saturday, June 13, from 12 p.m.-4 p.m.
SMPL will bring Southern California’s only beachside pop-up library to the Annenberg Community Beach House for a day of fun in the sun. Guests can check out beach reads, play games, and enjoy storytimes on Friday, August 7, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. All ages are welcome.
SMPL’s Summer Reading Program is supported by the Friends of the Santa Monica Public Library and the Kiwanis Club of Santa Monica. For more information visit www.santamonica.gov/library.
By Danny Jones