The number of Idaho children and teens participating in this year’s Summer Reading Program at their public libraries was up 9 percent to a record 69,000. The Idaho Commission for Libraries reports that since it launched its “Bright Futures” program in 2004, which includes a “Read to Me” program, school and outreach visits and more, summer reading enrollment has more than doubled. “More Idaho children participate in summer reading programs than any other organized youth program in the state,” the commission reported.

Libraries around the state told the commission that factors helping drive increased enrollment this year included, among others, the economy driving more families to libraries for free services and programs.