Second Lady Usha Vance Launches Summer Reading Program for Students

Second Lady Usha Vance launched a summer reading program on June 1, encouraging students to spend time with books this summer.

The second lady’s program targets school-aged children, encouraging them to read 12 books over the course of the summer.

The program is open to students entering kindergarten through eighth grade who live in the United States.

“This year’s reading challenge is extra special as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of America’s founding,” Vance said when announcing the program.

“My kids and I will be reading lots of stories about our country’s history at home, and I hope you’ll join us.”

The 12 books must be read between June 1 and Sept. 4 of this year and can be fiction, or nonfiction, classics, or new releases.

“Every book you open is an adventure—whether you are exploring new places, meeting new characters, or learning something new. A whole summer of reading fun is waiting just for you!” Vance said in a letter posted to the White House website.

Students will need to track their progress using an official reading log. Once the books have been completed, the log must be submitted through the program website, www.whitehouse.gov/read.

In addition to the benefit of the practice of reading, Vance announced that those who complete the program and submit their reading log will receive a certificate, a letter, and a bookmark, focused on America’s 250th birthday. Additionally, children will be able to choose a prize from the website.

Every child who submits a completed form will also be entered into a drawing to visit Washington, D.C., and the White House.

“Reading is such a fun way to explore new places, make new friends, and watch history come alive,” Vance said. “It’s one of my favorite things to do, and this summer it can become one of yours too. So, grab a book, grab a friend, and join me in making this a story-filled summer.”

Vance spoke about how the program was conceived last year, which was her first year as the second lady.

According to the second lady, the program was created to enhance childhood literacy and “stave off summer learning loss.”

The 2025 program was a much smaller pilot version. This year, schools and other institutions are launching the program, and the second lady expects nationwide participation.

“We’re hoping to get kids everywhere reading,” Vance said in an interview with Good Morning America.