MPL provides access to dynamic collections, appropriate technology, and global information to support and enrich individual, family, and community life."
209 E Center St Madison, SD 57042
605-256-7525
Reading Camp*
A FREE summer program for reading and writing with teachers from Madison Elementary school!
* (formerly known as Reading Bridge)
Once submitted, you will receive communication from library staff within 48-72 hours about your registration status.
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For students who have completed K-5th grade
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June 17, 24, 26
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(week break)
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July 8, 10, 15, 17
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Madison Public Library
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Register online or in the library
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Free transportation to & from the library for students who qualify
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(in city limits only)
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The Facts
Numerous professional studies reveal that summer months deter reading/writing growth in children. Public School students, from spring to fall, can sometimes show almost a one-level drop in reading level scores.
Reading Camp, formerly Reading Bridge, helps deter Summer Learning Loss, helping students from all walks of life stay prepared and motivated to learn when school begins in the fall.
In 2000, researcher Peter Johnson wrote about what made summer reading programs most effective: utilizing libraries, having trained tutors, being cost-effective for families, and emphasizing FUN!
Yes, fun was a researched requirement for an effective program! Reading Camp contains all of these elements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the questions we hear most often. We hope this helps answer some of yours!
Why the name change?
Madison Public Library's partner and namesake, the Reading Bridge Summer Tutoring program is no longer running. Out of respect we re-branded to become, Reading Camp. While the name is new, the spirit and the program basics stay.
How do I sign my child up for the Reading Camp program?
Click on the "Register" button above, you will be redirected to a sign up form. Once submitted, you will receive communication from library staff within 48-72 hours about your registration status.
Why am I am not just registered when I submit the form?
Reading Camp is a volunteer-led program. This means that the ability to tutor children is directly related to the number of tutors available. Each year this may be different. Please be patient with us. As we refine the process, we work our best to provide clear and consistent communication.
I have more than one child. Can I sign them both up?
Yes, but be sure to register each child separately. We have had multiple children from the same family in our program at the same time several times in the past. Your whole family is welcome to enjoy the library and relax with a book while your children are being tutored.
My child is going into Kindergarten next year. Can they participate in the program?
Reading Camp is for students who have already finished Kindergarten or any grade through 5th. Keep reading to them and talking about good books!
We can only attend a few of the sessions offered. Can we still sign up?
Yes! We encourage maximum attendance, but recognize the busy seasons of summer. We just ask that you communicate with library staff or tutors when your child(ren) are going to be gone.
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*Note: The best results are seen when students come to a minimum of six (6) sessions.
What can I do at home to help my child improve their reading and writing over the summer?
Reading to your child for 20 minutes every day is a great way to keep them thinking about reading and enjoying books! Always make it fun and interesting! Find books your child likes and avoid making it a chore.