Institute of Museum and Library Services

06/11/2026

The Second Lady of the United States has announced her second Summer Reading Challenge!

Children entering kindergarten through eighth grade are encouraged to read and track 12 books this summer. In addition to continuing their personal and intellectual development, challenge winners will receive a certificate, special prizes, and the chance to visit Washington, D.C.

Learn more and register at https://www.whitehouse.gov/read/.

This summer, as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of America’s founding, we are excited to invite all children (K-8) to join in the Second Lady’s 2026 Summer Reading Challenge. Participants will read and track 12 books of their choice between June 1 and September 4. Every book counts!

06/11/2026

From North Carolina, Richard Petty became one of the most iconic figures in motorsports history. Known as “The King,” he earned a record-setting number of wins and championships in NASCAR. His legacy continues to define excellence and endurance in American racing culture.

06/10/2026

As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, Usha Vance invites students in grades K-8 to take part in her Summer Reading Challenge and celebrate America through the power of books.

America’s libraries are the perfect place to take part in this challenge!

From June 1 through September 4, students who read 12 books will be eligible for prizes and a chance to visit the nation’s capital, Washington D.C. This is a special opportunity for young readers to explore stories about our history, our heroes, and dream about the future. 🇺🇸

To join the challenge:

1. Visit WH.gov/read
2. Read 12 books by September 4th
3. Submit your completed tracker online

Spread the word and help support young readers in your community!

06/10/2026

Originally built as the first permanent capitol of the Colony of North Carolina, Tryon Palace is now a publicly accessible museum and recipient. Plan a visit and bring history to life!

06/09/2026

One of America’s oldest mysteries began in North Carolina. 🏝️ English settlers arrived on Roanoke Island in 1585, but the colony later vanished. It is remembered as the legendary “Lost Colony.”

06/08/2026

As spotlights the road to independence, North Carolina stands out for its early leadership.

At Historic Halifax, the Halifax Resolves made North Carolina the first colony to officially call for independence.

06/08/2026

This month, we recognize the importance of PTSD awareness and support. We’re proud to share resources from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs that help support veterans, families, and communities. See them at www.ptsd.va.gov.

06/05/2026

🏅121 years old and still operating out of its original building, recipient the Nicholas P. Sims Library & Lyceum has been a fixture of Waxahachie, Texas, since 1905. One of the first public libraries built in Texas and named for the benefactor whose gift made it possible, N. P. Sims Library (as it is known to locals) has spent more than a century adapting to meet the needs of its community and showing what a library can be when it stays deeply rooted in the place it serves.

06/05/2026

Energy, creativity, and culture define New York and George Gershwin captured it all in his music. “Rhapsody in Blue” remains one of the most performed American orchestral works, blending jazz and classical traditions. His sound continues to echo the spirit of a nation shaped by innovation.

06/04/2026

Protecting priceless artifacts takes the right environment. In New York, Seward House Museum is installing a modern climate control system to safeguard the historic home and collections of statesman William Henry Seward. This project is an excellent example of how an can help American history endure for generations.