The Reading Grove Library Summer Reading Program
The Reading Grove is the Helen Crocker Russell Library’s summer reading and discovery program for all ages. Join anytime from June to July.
How does it work?
The Reading Grove is the Helen Crocker Russell Library’s summer reading and discovery program for all ages. Inspired by the Gardens of Golden Gate Park, the program features themed reading recommendations and self-guided activities that invite participants to explore plants, landscapes, and the natural world through books, observation, and imagination. Visit the Gardens in person or explore their themes through books and observation wherever you are.
Who can join The Reading Grove?
New this year, The Reading Grove is a program for participants of all ages! If a child is not yet able to read books independently, they can be read to by adults or older kids.
Is it free?
Yes! The Reading Grove is free and so is use of the Library. Access to the Gardens of Golden Gate Park is free to San Francisco residents with proof of address.
How many books do participants need to read?
Read at least one book and complete at least one non-book activity for each passport location. (Adults and older kids can read part of a longer book.) You are welcome to read more books and do more activities.
How is progress tracked? Do children receive incentives for participating?
Bring your completed Passport pages to the Helen Crocker Russell Library to collect stamps and seeds to grow at home. Collect all eight stamps and get a prize! Participants can receive (optional) email reminders from a librarian to help you stay on track.
Can we check out books from the Helen Crocker Russell Library? Are you part of the SF Public Library?
Our library is open to the public but is not part of the SF Public Library system. Anyone is welcome to read library books on-site! Gardens of Golden Gate Park members can apply for a free library card at the library to check out books.
When can we visit the Library?
The Library is open Friday, Saturday, Sunday, 10am-4pm. The Reading Grove is drop-in, so stop by any time during the Library’s open hours.
Do we need to visit the Library every week?
If you can’t make it to the Library every week, that’s okay! Track reading and activities in your passport booklet.
Contact us:
Call 415-661-1316 x403 or email library@gggp.org
Visit the Library Friday-Sunday to pick up your Reading Grove Passport and begin your journey.
