Reading Programs
OLIS coordinates reading programs for children, teens and adults at public libraries and partners with organizations to promote, support or develop statewide programs focused on early literacy, grade level reading, and statewide reading.
Quick Links
OLIS supports several statewide reading programs that engage Rhode Islanders.
Reading Across Rhode Island (RARI) is a program of the Rhode Island Center for the Book, made possible through a vibrant collaboration of librarians, teachers, book group leaders and readers from across the state. It is the Center’s “One Book One State” community read program that promotes a single book to help stimulate meaningful discussions across our state
The RI Middle School Book Award (RIMSBA) promotes and encourages Rhode Island children in Grades 6-8 to read books of literary quality which appeal to a wide variety of reading interests. RIMSBA encourages children in Grades 6-8 in Rhode Island to read for enjoyment and promotes the use of libraries and media centers.
The goal of the Rhode Island Teen Book Award is to promote quality literature for teens by highlighting well-written books that will be of interest to those between the ages of 14 and 18 years of age. It is the hope of the committee that by allowing teens to select the winner from each year's list of nominees, teens will be encouraged to not only read more, but also discuss the books they are reading with their friends and family at school, the local library, and at home.
The RI Latino Books Award, a program of RI Latino Arts (RILA), promotes the love of reading among Latino young people through the celebration of Latino authors, illustrators and books that highlight Latino culture and Latin American identity. Through this year-long celebration, RILA encourages librarians, teachers, educators and booksellers to promote books written by and for Latinos, and we encourage all Rhode Islanders to read books in both English and Spanish and written by Latino authors and illustrators.
Kids Reading Across Rhode Island
Kids Reading Across Rhode Island is Rhode Island's One Book, One State community read program for kids. This program, offered by the Rhode Island Office of Library and Information Services in partnership with the Rhode Island Center for the Book, encourages students across the state in grades 4 through 6 to read the same book, and engage in community discussions and programs.
Rhode Island Children's Book Award
Children in grades 3 to 5 have the opportunity to vote on their favorite book from a ballot of 20 selections nominated for the Rhode Island Children’s Book Award by a panel of librarians, reading specialists and teachers.
OLIS sponsors the statewide Summer Reading Program to keep kids and teens reading for fun while strengthening their skills over the summer. Adults can join in too—discovering new genres, pursuing interests, and setting an example for young readers. Public libraries receive iREAD materials to support engaging activities for all ages. This program is supported by OLIS with funds from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.Kids Reading Across Rhode Island
Kids Reading Across Rhode Island is Rhode Island's One Book, One State community read program for kids. This program, offered by the Rhode Island Office of Library and Information Services in partnership with the Rhode Island Center for the Book, encourages students across the state in grades 4 through 6 to read the same book, and engage in community discussions and programs. Kids Reading Across Rhode Island
Kids Reading Across Rhode Island is Rhode Island's One Book, One State community read program for kids. This program, offered by the Rhode Island Office of Library and Information Services in partnership with the Rhode Island Center for the Book, encourages students across the state in grades 4 through 6 to read the same book, and engage in community discussions and programs.
Rhode Island Children's Book Award
Children in grades 3 to 5 have the opportunity to vote on their favorite book from a ballot of 20 selections nominated for the Rhode Island Children’s Book Award by a panel of librarians, reading specialists and teachers.