JOLIET – To emphasize the importance of learning throughout the summer, State Senator Rachel Ventura is hosting a Summer Book Club.

“By reading throughout the summer, students can improve their reading level while not in school,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “This is a great way to keep kids actively learning. Developing a love of reading at a young age is key to a child's development and to increase their desire to read.”

The Summer Book Club requires students to read eight books of their choice during the summer break, record the names of the books on a form and return the form to Senator Ventura’s office by Aug. 18.

Every child who completes the Summer Book Club will receive a gift card and a certificate from Senator Ventura.

Ventura encourages residents of the 43rd District to participate in the program and visit their local library. Summer Book Club forms are available at the following participating libraries: Woodridge Public Library,Fountaindale Public Library District, Joliet Public Library District, Three Rivers Public Library District, Manhattan-Elwood Public Library, White Oak Library District and Shorewood-Troy Public Library.

Summer Book Club forms are also available to download at SenatorVentura.com as well as contact information for the libraries. People with questions can reach out to Ventura’s office at (331) 290-0443.