State Representative Dave Severin announced on May 27 the launch of the 2026 “Read All About It! – America 250” Summer Reading Club, inviting students in Illinois’ 116th District to participate in a program aimed at encouraging reading during the summer months.
The initiative is open to incoming first through fourth grade students, who are challenged to read eight books over their summer break. Those who complete the program will receive an official Illinois House of Representatives Certificate of Recognition and an invitation to a special end-of-summer celebration.
Participants meeting the reading goal will be invited, along with their families, to attend a free pool party at the Mt. Vernon Aquatic Zoo on August 9 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Severin said, “Summer reading is critical to helping students maintain and grow their academic skills while school is out. This program is a great way to encourage kids to keep learning, use their imagination, and be rewarded for their hard work.”
Books read as part of local library programs may count toward the total requirement, and longer books—those over 150 pages—can be counted as two books. Students must submit a form verified by a parent or guardian after completing their reading assignments.
Completed forms must be returned by July 24 and can be submitted either by mail or electronically. Additional information about program details and submission instructions can be found on Rep. Severin’s website.
Severin encourages all eligible students in his district to participate in this year’s club and enjoy both educational enrichment and community activities throughout the summer.
Severin, a Republican, was elected to represent Illinois’ 116th House District in 2023 following David Friess’s tenure as state representative, according to Ballotpedia.
