Children participating in the summer reading program at the Daviess County Public Library can earn a free Happy Meal this summer through the return of the Happy McReaders program, a partnership with McDonald’s and local libraries.
The program encourages children to keep reading during summer break by rewarding them for completing reading milestones. Children can pick up a Happy McReaders punch card at participating libraries and receive a punch each time they read and return a book. After reading 10 books, they can redeem the completed card for a free Happy Meal at participating McDonald’s restaurants.
The Happy McReaders program complements DCPL’s own Summer Reading Program, which rewards children for reaching hourly reading goals.
“Our local McDonald’s has been so supportive of our Summer Reading Program here at DCPL,” said Taryn Norris, children’s librarian and assistant manager at Daviess County Public Library. “DCPL tracks hours logged and provides milestone prizes to children at 15 and 30 hours logged. Once a child has logged 15 and/or 30 hours, they will receive a free book and a pre-punched card to receive a free Happy Meal.”
According to program organizers, children participating in Happy McReaders read more than 100,000 books last summer, helping promote literacy and keep students engaged while school is out.
Local McDonald’s owner-operators said the initiative is one way they support education and encourage families to spend time reading together during the summer months.
Happy McReaders punch cards will be available at participating libraries while supplies last through August 31. Families can pick up cards at participating libraries and redeem completed cards at participating McDonald’s locations. More information, including a list of participating libraries, is available on the Happy McReaders webpage.
