The Challenge is simple — read every day this summer. Read, attend programs, and have a lot of fun at the Library this summer.
Everyone can be part of the Ultimate Summer Challenge. The shared reading adventure will be an exciting way to connect and grow together over the summer months.
Track your reading using the Beanstack app or with one of our garden-themed Challenge maps available at all Library locations. Plus, you will be eligible to win incredible prizes just by participating.
Challenge runs from July 1 - August 31.
Teachers, the Ultimate Summer Challenge is back and so are our kickoff events! At these virtual kickoff events, students can learn how to participate in the Challenge, the prizes they can win, and the incredible programs and services that will be at the Library this summer. Plus, they will discover some great reads so they can grow their summer reading list.
You can track your reading right in the Beanstack app or on one of our garden-themed Challenge maps available at all Library locations. Keep track of every day between July 1 and August 31 by colouring in your map and picking up a new sticker each week at any Library location. Before you know it, your Challenge map will be in full bloom with a beautiful garden and adorable insects! You can also complete a reading badge to be displayed at your Library.
Visit a Library location to pick up your Challenge map or download your map.
Ages 0 – 5:
Ages 6 – 12
Ages 13 – 17
Ages 18+:
The Ultimate Summer Challenge is fun for readers of all ages. Everyone who registers will have a chance to win amazing prizes.
Adult
Here are ten suggestions to help round out your summer reading.
School-Age Kids
Keep cool with these summer reads exploring all things under the sea for kids in Kindergarten – Grade 3.
Teens
We're falling in love this summer with romance!
Adult
Get your reading wheels rolling with the perfect variety of books dedicated to hitting the road.
School-Age Kids
Celebrate International Day of Friendship with these titles for Kindergarten – Grade 3 that explore making friends, the power of friendship, and how to navigate many different situations with friends by your side.
Teens
Summer is here, and graphic novels are the vibe of the season. Check out our top recommendations!
School-age Kids
Celebrate summer with these great reads for children ages 8 – 12.
Babies and Toddlers
Beat the heat with these stories of summer fun, sunshine, and adventure.
Adults
Fill your Summer Challenge Maps with smart, explosive, action-packed thrillers. Yes! Adults can have fun reading too.
Teens
Travel through time with characters in these books to the past or to the future.
Adults
Twelve of our favourites, for beginners and the more experienced gardener, with expert advice, step-by-step instructions, and lots of inspiration.
School-age kids
Summer is here and these are some great titles read under the shade of a friendly tree.
Teens
A list of contemporary romance books for young adults. The main requirements: must be set during the summer, and there must be l-o-v-e!
Adults
Join the Ultimate Summer Challenge and escape into one of our recommended thrillers, perfect for the beach, couch or backyard.
Be sure to follow us on social media — Instagram, Facebook, X, or LinkedIn — for the latest Ultimate Summer Challenge updates. Stay tuned for social media giveaways and fun photo opportunities at locations across the city.
We also want to see your progress! Tag us and use our hashtag #UltimateSummerChallenge as you share with friends and family pictures of books that you’ve read, programs you’ve attended, or the progress on your map.
