Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft announced on Monday that the Howard County Public Library has been awarded a Reading Challenge Software Grant of $495. 

Reading Challenge Software Grants help public libraries implement the reading challenge and tracker software solution of their choice to provide partial or full online summer reading programs in 2020, as well as other reading challenges throughout the year. Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the library decided to host an online-only summer reading program this year. The theme is “Imagine Your Story.”

The free program encourages book lovers of all ages to read with the library all summer long. Sign-ups began June 2. Reading and activity trackers will be available online to download for printing or to use with a computer or device. Summer readers who complete the challenge by reading and completing activities online will earn rewards they can pick up at the library in August.

Participants may register online at hocopub.readsquared.com, or call the library for more information.

“Missouri’s libraries play a vital role in their communities, providing key resources and learning opportunities year-round,” Ashcroft said. “These grants help our libraries continue to offer their summer reading programs, with the added ease of online accessibility.”

The Missouri State Library has approved a total of 141 grant applications in the 2020 fiscal year, totaling $810,019.50 in federal awards that the secretary’s office has distributed to libraries throughout Missouri. The grants are funded by the Library Services and Technology Act through the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services.