Each public library in NY state has access to the CSLP manual online. The CSLP manual is an idea book of programs, booklists, printables, artwork and other resources that you may use in planning and delivering your summer library program. It also includes a collection of posters, banners, art spots, and other graphic files to accompany the Unearth a Story™ theme.  

The 2026 CSLP manual also features a chapter on Celebrating America 250™ with program ideas for ALL ages.  

To access the CSLP manual: 

1. Use the direct link at https://programs.cslpreads.org/ and then click on Learn More! beneath the poster image. You’ll be prompted to enter your access code here.   
2. Go to the CSLP homepage, navigate to “Manual Downloads” in the top menu bar, and click on “2026 Unearth a Story.” Then click on Learn More! to enter the access code.  

CSLP membership and manuals are provided at no cost to New York state public libraries. This service is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services LSTA funds granted through the New York State Library. New York state public libraries may use these themes and materials to plan summer library programs and for programming throughout the year. Keep in mind that public libraries are not required to use CSLP themes or materials, but the materials are readily available to all public libraries and are provided by the NY State Library.  

The CSLP shop is open for 2026. You may also browse the product line in the Unearth a Story™ product catalog (PDF). In addition to publicity items, décor, incentives, and t-shirts, the CSLP manual is available for purchase in print format. Purchases from the CSLP online store are at each library’s discretion and are the library’s responsibility. 

Save the Dates! NYS Online Summer Reading Program Planning Workshops:

• Children – Monday, February 9 | 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
• Teens – Wednesday, March 11 | 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM 

Questions about Summer Reading Programs? Contact Kerstin Cruger at kcruger@midhudson.org.

In addition to the data survey we sent to Library Directors, we are asking anyone who participated in the 2025 MHLS Road Trip Challenge to complete this evaluation survey. This survey is open to anyone who attempted to complete the challenge, regardless of the progress they made. This includes member library staff that participated. Anyone completing the survey can choose to be entered into a drawing to win 1 of 10 coupons for a free car wash at Foam & Wash. Please help us get the word out about this survey – we’ve created a flyer you can post to encourage participants to respond. View/Download Participant Survey Flyer.

Staff Suggestions/Feedback Welcome! We also want to know about your experiences with this program as a library worker. Please take a few minutes to complete this staff feedback survey. This feedback will be used to evaluate the impact and effectiveness of this program and may possibly shape future programs. We’ll use the findings to help the advisory committee analyze the effectiveness of the program.

ALL RESPONSES ARE ANONYMOUS. Both surveys will close November 19.

Trustee Handbook Book Club: Open Meetings Law | January 27 | 5 – 6 PM | Online

Join co-author of the Handbook for Library Trustees of New York State Rebekkah Smith Aldrich and friends for this fun and informative series! At each session, trustees will take a deeper dive on a topic relevant to their role and responsibilities as a library trustee.

Session Information:
Presenter: Kristin O’Neill, Committee on Open Government (NYS)
This session provides an opportunity for attendees to learn more about Library Board of Trustees’ obligations under the Open Meetings Law. The class will focus on the areas of concern most relevant to you, so bring your questions, concerns, and unusual situations to discuss and to receive advice and guidance from the Committee on Open Government.  

Have questions for the panelists? Submit them here.

This event qualifies as trustee education and may be applied towards the NYS Trustee Education Requirements.

Trustee Handbook Book Club – Next Level Trusteeship: Building an Effective and Impactful Board Culture Online

November 18 | 5 – 6:30 PM

Join co-author of the Handbook For Library Trustees of New York State Rebekkah Smith Aldrich and friends for this fun and informative series! At each session, trustees will take a deeper dive on a topic relevant to their role and responsibilities as a library trustee.

Have questions for the panelists? Submit them here.

This event qualifies as trustee education and may be applied towards the NYS Trustee Education Requirements.