June 2025 City Manager's Newsletter Message

Join the Fun With Summer Reading

Now read this: June is officially summer, and while summer means many things in Port Townsend, the Summer Reading Program might just be one for you.

If this story sounds familiar, perhaps it’s because you’ve been part of this three-month community event in previous years. If not, read on: we’ve written you in the storyline in the next paragraph!

Everyone is invited to read and track their reading hours from June 1 to August 31 to win prizes. For instance, kids and teens can read 10 hours and earn a free book; 50 hours earn a limited-edition T-shirt designed by local artist Lydia Vadopalas. Teens and young adults (ages 13-24) who wear a Summer Reading T-shirt to the Nest by September 8th, 2025, will receive a free drink. Adults earn a vinyl sticker by reading 10 hours and that special T-shirt with 100 hours.

The 2025 Summer Reading Program theme is “reading is the G.O.A.T. (Greatest of All Time). You’ll see that reflected in Lydia’s artwork and, back-by-popular-demand, at events like the “Goat Party” with actual goats (June 25 from 4-5pm). Learn more about Summer Reading here, including timing and details of a range of events.

My whole family and I are excited to participate for another consecutive year. Reach out and tell me what you’re reading and why – I always love learning about a new author or a new read and adding to my list. You can read some of my favorite reads in the Port Townsend Library Friends & Foundation newsletter, here. 

Speaking of which, I’d like to offer warm appreciation for the Friends, the generous sponsor of the Summer Reading Program, whose support allows the all-ages programs and events to be free for all. Thank you!

Grab a book (or an audio-book, magazine, graphic novel) and join us! I look forward to our community writing another chapter of our story together, continuing to exercise our curiosity, connectivity, and celebration with the Summer Reading Program.