AROUND THE WORLD IN 60 DAYS
Monday, June 1st, 2026 - Friday, July 31st, 2026
This year’s theme, Around the World in 60 Days, invites readers of all ages to explore stories, traditions, and adventures from across the globe. Throughout the summer, the library will offer global‑inspired programs, hands‑on activities, cultural spotlights, and special events that celebrate the many ways people live, create, and imagine around the world. It’s a season built for curiosity, discovery, and a little bit of wanderlust - and every reader is invited to join the journey!
Patrons of all ages will enjoy reading or listening to books (any kind you want!) all summer long through one of our three reading programs, all while winning some fabulous prizes! There's something for EVERYONE to enjoy at NMPL's Summer Reading Program!
PASSPORT BOOKS
Embark on your reading adventure with a Summer Reading Passport! Starting June 1st, stop by the library to pick up your passport book and begin collecting stamps as you travel “around the world” with us. You’ll earn stamps each week you visit the library, as well as for checking out books from our weekly country‑themed displays. It’s a fun, immersive way to follow along with our global journey and track your progress all summer long!
Parents may choose to take their children’s passports home or have us keep them safely at the library. Teens and adults will hold onto their own passports throughout the program. Be sure to bring your passport with you each week so you don’t miss out on any stamps - your reading adventure awaits!
- What ages are able to participate?
Ages 0 – 12 are able to participate in the Children’s program, but we're always happy to make exceptions for older kids who want to participate in the Children's Program! (Please note that Beanstack locks in by age. If they want to read outside of their age bracket, they will need to choose the paper trackers instead of virtual.)
- Do different ages have different challenges?
Yes! 0 – 5 year old's will read 3 hours for each prize, 6 – 9 year old's will read 4 hours for each prize, and 10-12 year old's read 5 hours to earn each prize. We are flexible. If a younger child wants a bigger challenge and would like to go for reading more hours, then that's totally fine! If an older child is a struggling reader and needs to read less, that's okay!
- What do we do if a child loses their paper tracker?
Come to the children's desk and we'll help you sort it out!
- Can my child read books that aren’t in the library? Can they participate without a library card?
Absolutely!
- What do the badges do?
Badges are virtual rewards that readers earn in Beanstack - it's just a fun way to keep motivated on your reading journey!
- Can a child go through Summer Reading multiple times?
Yes! On Beanstack they will continue to earn badges and grand prize tickets for each hour read. The more reading they do... the more tickets they earn!
- What’s the last day for getting prizes?
The final day of Summer Reading (July 24th) is the last day to collect prizes.
- We want to use Beanstack but we don't have smart devices or laptops. What do we do?
No problem! Stop by one of the Beanstack stations at the check out desks and use the library tech to create an account, log your minutes, or apply your grand prize tickets!
Section 1 Prize - Choice of Two International Snacks
For completing Section 1, you’ll get to choose two international snacks from our Turkish Munchies Snack assortment - a fun mix of sweet, salty, and surprising treats from around the world! It’s a small taste‑adventure to celebrate your progress and keep you fueled as you continue your reading journey.
Section 2 Prizes - Free Popsicle Coupon from La Morenita
These delicious paletas (popsicles) come in a rainbow of flavors - from classics (chocolate & butter pecan) to bold flavors like Vanilla Eskimo and Egg Nog. A tasty way to celebrate your reading streak!
Section 3 Prize - Growing Sea Animal
For completing Section 3, you’ll receive a Magic Grow Creature. Just place it in water and watch it slowly expand into a colorful animal toy!
Section 4 Prize - Summer Reading T-Shirt
Show off your Summer Reading success with our official 2026 Summer Reading T‑shirt, this comfortable unisex tee is available in a variety of youth and adult sizes. It features this year’s logo design so you can proudly celebrate finishing Around the World in 60 Days. It’s the perfect keepsake for a summer well read - and well traveled.
North America: Wabash County Museum (Family Day Passes)
Sometimes the best adventures are in your own backyard! Take your whole family to the Wabash County Museum for a fabulous day of exploring The Meadow (the sensory friendly space), The Den (children's active play area), and a wide range of permanent and rotating exhibits.
Africa: Croaking Frog Instrument
Celebrate the continent of Africa with this beautiful wooden instrument. Easy to play and soothing to listen to, this is a great sensory tool for all ages!
Hint: Get your passport book stamped by visiting the library each week this summer and reading books from around the world to earn more tickets to enter in this drawing.
The World: Digital Camera
This kid-friendly digital camera will let you capture memories wherever in the world you adventure! Experiences here and abroad will be the perfect subject for YOU and your camera, Summer Reading traveler.
Europe: Magnetic Building Cubes
In honor of the continent of Europe, these magnetic building cubes are perfect for constructing castles, towers, and cottages. Let loose your inner architect with this set of 100 cubes!
South America: Capybara Nightlight
One of South America's most loved animals inspired this grand prize! Reflecting the capybara's chill vibes, this cute silicone night light doubles as room décor, sensory toy, and mood booster. Rechargeable, it turns on and off with a tap of the hand.
Australia: Bluey and Bingo
We're paying homage to the continent of Australia with stuffies of Bluey and Bingo! If you're a fan of the hit show, this is definitely the prize you will want to add to your collection.
Asia: Ramen Noodle Kit
Celebrate the continent of Asia with everything you need to make your own delicious Ramen! This handy, microwaveable bowl fits two ramen bricks, broth, and toppings. Comes with chopsticks and ramen noodle packs.
Antarctica: Chubby Seal Pillow
We're celebrating the continent of Antarctica with this adorable seal pillow. This little guy is cute and cuddly and sure to put a smile on your face!
North America: Grumpy Cat Pillow
We're celebrating the North American continent by giving away this squishy pillow with personality! Whether your happy, mad, or something in between, this grumpy kitty is just perfect for keeping you company.