The Library holds programs throughout the year to help create young readers.

1000 Books Before Kindergarten

An on-going reading challenge for parents and caregivers of children 6 and under who haven't started kindergarten yet. Because it's never too early to start reading to your child, this reading challenge encouraging a habit of regular reading by tracking every time a book is read, with fun prizes for the little learners along the way! Start your child on this fun challenge by downloading your tracking sheet now at wichitalibrary.org/1000books.

Summer Reading

Since at least 1926, the Library has offered summer reading programs to the children of Wichita. These programs aim to fight the "summer brain drain" that causes children to suffer a measurable reading loss over the summer break from school. Each year has a different theme; the theme for 2024 was Adventure Begins at Your Library! Information about the 2025 program will be announced in spring 2025.

NEA Big Read: Wichita

Every fall, the Wichita area is encouraged to join in on reading and enjoying community activities surrounding one book. While the selected book is for adults, the Wichita Public Library and its various partners provide companion books as well as many programs designed for children, teens and families. The NEA: Big Read Wichita selection for 2024 was There There by Tommy Orange. The 2025 title is Sitting Pretty: The View From My Ordinary Resilient Disabled Body by Rebekah Taussig. More information can be found at BigReadWichita.org.

Kansas Reads to Preschoolers

Each November, libraries across the state observe Kansas Reads to Preschoolers Month, an event that promotes reading to children from birth through age 5. Parents, librarians, early childhood professionals, and caregivers are encouraged to read a chosen book. During this month, the Library serves thousands of preschoolers in Wichita through visits to schools and early childhood facilities. The selection for 2024 was How Do You Hug a Porcupine? by Laurie Isop.

Check-up and Check Out

The Library has partnered with GraceMed and University of Kansas Pediatric Clinics to offer a free book at well-child exams. At each exam, parents are given a coupon that can be redeemed at the Library for one free children's book.