2026 Summer Reading Program - All Ages Essay Contest
2026-05-22 - 2026-07-10 | Pickerington Public Library (Main Branch), 201 Opportunity Way, Pickerington, OH, 43147, United States
“What Does America Mean to You?”
Calling all writing enthusiasts! The Pickerington Public Library is hosting an Essay Contest this summer! Celebrating America’s 250th Birthday, we want to hear your thoughts, opinions, and experiences of living in the United States of America!
Writers of all ages are invited to reflect, tell their stories, and submit an original essay for a chance to win their age category and be a featured guest at the Open Mic Night and Awards Ceremony in August. Prize baskets will be awarded to each winner in the three age groups, and one overall grand prize winner will win a $200 gift card to the Columbus Association for the Performing Arts.
Age Categories:
Kids: 0-11
Teens: 12-17
Adults: 18+
Essay Requirements:

Essays should respond to the theme “What Does America Mean to You?”

Click to view the 2026 Summer Essay Content Judging Rubric

Submissions must include at least one personal experience, observation, or example that helps explain the writer’s perspective.
Essays must be typed.

Teen & Adult essays should be 500–1,000 words in length.
Kids’ essays do not have a word requirement.

Essays must be original work created by the participants. Submissions that contain plagiarized material, are generated by artificial intelligence tools, or are written by someone other than the participant may be disqualified at the discretion of the library.

Parents of younger children may type the exact words of their child, if the child is unable to type. We recommend using speech-to-text technology, if available.

By submitting an essay, participants grant the library permission to display or publish their work (with first name and last initial) for promotional or educational purposes.
Typed essays may be dropped off at Pickerington Main Library or Sycamore Plaza Library.
In the event of a tie, the submission with the highest Reflection and Insight score will be selected as the winner
May. 22: Contest Opens
Jul. 10: Submission Deadline
Aug. 12: Open Mic Night & Awards

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2026 Summer Reading Program - Red, White, and Read!
2026-05-22 - 2026-08-01 | Pickerington Public Library (Main Branch), 201 Opportunity Way, Pickerington, OH, 43147, United States
Join the fun starting May 22 by signing up online to track your progress digitally, or stop by any library location to register and pick up a paper reading log. Earn rewards for reading, visiting the library, and attending programs, plus entries for a chance to win one of 10 Grand Prizes — through Aug 1.
The kickoff event on May 22nd includes an All Ages Essay Contest focusing upon the question “What Does America Mean to You?”
June 12-13 is the Children’s Book Sale, run by the Friends of the Pickerington Public Library to provide more books for younger readers.
The conclusion is the Big Summer Celebration with a petting zoo, inflatables, Touch-a-Truck, and More!
Other events will be included and linked as they are announced.
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The Wild Robot Reading Club
2026-07-09 13:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | Pickerigton Public Library Main Branch, 201 Opportunity Way, Pickerington, OH, 43147, United States
For kids entering 3rd – 5th grade

We’ll take turns reading aloud, pause to discuss what’s happening, and share thoughts, predictions, and favorite moments in this surprising journey of survival, friendship, and discovery.

What would you do if you woke up alone on a wild island—with no instructions and no one like you in sight? Rising 3rd–5th graders will explore friendship, adventure, and teamwork when we dive into The Wild Robot by Peter Brown.
During weekly meetups, we’ll take turns reading aloud, pause to talk about what’s happening, and share our thoughts, predictions, and favorite moments. Everyone is encouraged to participate at their own comfort level, and staff will guide the conversation to keep it fun and welcoming.
At the end of each meeting, participants will be assigned a few chapters to read at home before the next session. When we return, we’ll discuss what we read and continue the adventure together. We will also include simple activities or crafts connected to the story.
This book club is a great way to practice reading, grow confidence, and connect with other kids who enjoy great stories.
Registration is required.

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