Talking Times, Spring 2026 - Section 1
NLS Summer Reading Program
Unearth a Story, at the NLS Summer Reading program 2026. Fun for all ages and abilities that mixes reading with at-home activities and virtual author events. The Summer Reading Program, SRP, is being produced in conjunction with the Braille Institute Library in Los Angeles and will run from June 15th through August 15. This year’s theme, adopted from the Collaborative Summer Learning Program, CSLP, will feature summer reading programs across the country and will focus on dinosaurs and discovering new stories! Participants will “Unearth a Story” with each new activity or book to make discoveries all summer long. The SRP Kickoff will take place on June 15th with Peter Heller, author of “The Dog Stars (DB75493)” and, most recently, “The Orchard (DB134029),” that will start things off with a discussion of “Ecology, Crisis and the Contemporary Novel.” For more information visit the complete schedule of events.
Rhode Island Summer Reading 2026: Plant a Seed, Read
This summer, grow your imagination at your local library with this year's Summer Reading Program Plant a Seed, Read. Designed for all ages, this theme is rooted in the idea of farm-to-table. Farms nourish our bodies, and libraries nourish our minds. Through books, activities, and events, you can explore culture, science, history, health, and the connections that bring communities together. Many libraries offer online reading trackers and mobile apps, making it easy to participate wherever you are. Visit your library and plant the seeds for a great summer of reading. There will also be a Rhode Island Statewide Scavenger Hunt. Calling all young explorers! Can you find the Good Egg or the Bad Seed? This summer, they are hiding in libraries across Rhode Island. Pick up a passport at any participating library and start your adventure between June 22 and August 22. Find information about the scavenger hunt and a list of participating libraries at olis.ri.gov/scavengerhunt. This program is made possible by the Office of Library and Information Services (OLIS) with funds from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
Local Public Libraries with Large Print Collections
The Talking Books Library does not offer Large Print titles, but if you are interested in obtaining any, below is a list of local libraries with a large print collection here in Rhode Island. The libraries with the largest collections are in North Providence, Woonsocket, Newport, Lincoln, North Kingstown, East Smithfield and Warwick. Check with your local public library if you wish to borrow a large print title. All titles are available through the Ocean State Libraries network which allows you to borrow materials from any RI public library, many of which provide homebound services.
Local Libraries Offer Homebound Services
If you are unable to visit your local library and would like to receive materials from them, you should call to see if they have homebound services and if you may qualify to receive items delivered to your home or place of residence. Many public libraries throughout RI offer homebound services for disabled and elderly. Call your local library today if you need these services.