Explore Memphis


Reading Challenge

Read each week to be entered into weekly prize drawings. Read up to 600 minutes to be entered into the Grand Prize drawing. There will be weekly and Grand Prizes for children, teens, and adults.

Events

We have events for all ages throughout the summer. Browse our calendar by age group, location, and event type.

Summer Camps

Memphis Public Libraries Summer camps engage youth in fun, STEAM-based curriculum. Camps range from science, robotics, coding, art, and more.

Explore Memphest

Do you love Memphis? We do! Join us in celebrating our city all summer. Enjoy free food, learn about your libraries and community organizations, and more!

Library Card

Need a Library Card? Sign up online and access our online services immediately!

Catalog

Search our catalog for your next read. Place books on hold and pick them up from your closest branch. Just a reminder, we do not have overdue fines!

Libby e-books, e-audio, e-magazines

Access our digital collection straight from your home computer or smart device.

Summer in Memphis

Summer in Memphis (SIM) is a guide to the many free amenities that the City of Memphis offers to keep our young people active and engaged through the summer months.

901 Student Passport

Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris’ Office of Innovation and YMCA of the Mid-South provide the 901 Student Passport program that provides free access to certain local attractions.


About Explore Memphis

Why?

When children and teens don’t read during the summer, they lose important knowledge and skills gained during the school year. This is called the summer slide. The slide isn’t something easily made up, either; children don’t catch up the following school year, because other children are moving ahead with their skills. At MPL, we’re determined to help families prevent this slide by offering opportunities to read and learn throughout the summer.

Did you know?

  • Reading over the summer helps to prevent the summer slide.
  • Combining reading, learning, and exploration improves student interest and academic growth.
  • Reading improves your overall health–it increases mental stimulation and relaxation, among other health benefits.
  • Reading and learning together helps families bond and grow.

Our Mission: To motivate participants to read and learn during the summer through engaging programs, creative partnerships, and free resources.
Our Vision: A more literate Memphis.


EXPLORE MEMPHIS IS SPONSORED BY