Libraries everywhere are rolling out their summer reading programs in an effort to keep kids reading over the summer. It’s well documented that kids lose ground in what they’ve learned when they are on summer break. Parents can help minimize the loss by motivating kids to read while they’re on break from school.

But reading has to be fun, not feel like classwork. That’s where library reading programs, with their prizes and fun activities built around books, come in. Library summer reading materials often present reading as a game, where kids can set goals and track their progress. Prizes often appeal to different age groups. And you needn’t worry about getting in to the library every week if you’re tight on time. Most libraries will allow you to check in and get credit for your reading as little as once a summer.

So check out what your local library has to offer. Help your children get their own library cards so they can check books out in their own name. Ask librarians to help them choose titles they will like. Then soak up the peace and quiet during the hours they spend reading over the next couple of months.

If you don’t have an easily accessible library nearby, explore the summer reading program offered online by Scholastic.

Bonus: Many libraries also offer summer reading programs for adults, with major prizes and entertaining programs that let moms and dads have their own fun.