This book provides a theoretical basis for summer library reading programs, and provides hands-on knowledge about what really works in summer library programs, culled from the experience of librarians across the country. The book contains an introduction--"What Are Summer Library Reading Programs"--and five chapters. Chapter 1--"The Literacy/Learning Value of Summer Library Reading"--condenses the research on how summer library programs positively affect students' reading retention over the traditional summer vacation. Chapter 2--"Serving the Community of Users (and Nonusers)"--discusses who should be served by summer reading programs and looks at nontraditional audiences. Chapter 3--"Organizing Your Program"--provides time frames for planning, possible themes, program promotion, and partnerships. Chapter 4--"Sample Programs"--provides suggestions on adapting books into other formats for use in programs, information on copyright law, and an inventory and discussion of various types of programs. Chapter 5--"Evaluating Your Success"--discusses output measures, questionnaires, focus groups, and other methods of evaluation. Most chapters include a bibliography. An appendix--"Summer Library Program Themes by State"--provides a contact for each state, and the list of summer programs by name and year, covering the years 1990-97. Includes an index. (SWC)