Team Des Plaines

(click here to download a PDF of the summer mailer)

Kids (Birth - Grade 8):

  • Pick up your Summer Reading Log anytime during the Summer Reading Challenge. . 
  • Set a daily reading goal for yourself and keep track on your log! 
  • Read 20 days for a T-shirt and 40 days for a book.  
  • Bring your Summer Reading Log to the Library each week, visit our Summer Reading table, and tell us about what you are reading to earn a new bead for your SRC bead keepsake! 
  • Visit our website for a complete list of upcoming programs and activities. Look forward to drop-in crafts, musical shows, take-home kits, storytimes, and more!

Teens (Grades 7-12):

  • Read a book, attend a program, or write a book review to be entered into a drawing to win a Nintendo Switch 2! The more books you read and programs you attend, the more entries you get.
  • Earn a $5 gift card for Brew Coffee Lab. To qualify, pick up a punch card, and get it punched each time you:
    • Attend a program.
    • Checkout an eBook or eAudiobook.
    • Read a book.
    • Say hello to a librarian.
    • Listen to our Summer Teen Playlist on Freegal to explore Des Plaines history.

Adults: 

  • Bi-Weekly Connections Contest: A new Connections puzzle game (based on the popular New York Times Game) will be posted bi-weekly on the 3rd floor with 2 winners drawn. The prize is a $25 gift card to a local restaurant.
  • Des Plaines Landmarks Bracket Voting: What is the MOST iconic Des Plaines landmark? Vote for your favorite. Bonus: a scavenger hunt to explore Des Plaines history on the 3rd floor.
  • Reading Contest: Read a book, submit an entry for each book in person or online, and be entered in a drawing to win weekly prizes and grand prizes, including $150 gift cards to:
    • Whirlyball
    • The Des Plaines Theatre
    • Escape Room
    • Time Mission
    • DPPL Apparel
    • Professional Women's Hockey
    • Indoor Kart Racing

DPPL's Summer 2026 Design-A-Bookmark Contest
June 1 - June 30

Use paint, crayon, pencil, marker, mixed media, or any other material you choose. Your design can express your love of DPPL, books, art, sports, community, or anything else! Download the bookmark template here!

Free Gift Info
May 27 - September 5th

Drop in during Canvas open hours from May 27th – September 5th to create a special DPPL Celebrates America’s 250th kit, including a limited edition zippered pouch, commemorative sticker, and a pocket-sized copy of the Declaration of Independence. While supplies last.

Many programs and activities are made possible by our generous partner, the Friends of the Des Plaines Library.