Booked for the Weekend: Grand Forks Summer Reading Guide

Summer in Greater Grand Forks is made for page-turners. Whether you’re diving into fiction on a patio or listening to an audiobook on a park bench, there’s no shortage of ways to get your reading fix—and this community knows how to make it fun. From free libraries to book clubs to rooftop reads, here’s why reading in the summer is cooler than ever.

The Grand Forks Public Library and East Grand Forks Campbell Library both host Summer Reading Programs packed with challenges, prizes, and events for kids, teens, and adults. It’s a great way to build reading habits as a family and keep little ones engaged while school’s out. Many elementary schools also send home reading logs and recommend lists to keep kids motivated all summer long.

Watch for special Read in the Parks events this summer—story time in nature! These free, family-friendly gatherings bring stories to life with guest readers, crafts, and a little sunshine. It’s an easy, low-pressure way to encourage a love of books while soaking up the outdoors.

Parks like Lincoln, Riverside, Sherlock, Sertoma, etc. all have good shady spots to get those summer pages in!

From monthly fiction meetups to relaxed mom book clubs, there’s a reading group for everyone. Some meet at local restaurants or parks; others go digital during nap time. Ask around—chances are, someone in your circle is already part of one! A great place to start is on Facebook!

Don’t miss the Sonder Bakehouse Reading Club for a charming, carb-filled book discussion you’ll actually want to attend (pastries + people who love books = magic).

Keep your eyes peeled for Little Free Libraries throughout the area—those cute, colorful boxes scattered across neighborhoods and parks. Bring a book, take a book, and repeat. They’re a great way to discover something new and give your shelves a summer refresh.

Want some niche lesser known spots? We’ve got you!

• Rhombus Guys Rooftop: Grab a drink and a shady table – yes, boos and pizza can go together.
• Along the Greenway: quiet, breezy, and perfect for a paperback and a picnic.
• Hotspots: The Urban Stampede and Ely’s Ivy downtown are reader favorites for cozy corners and calm vibes.

Whether you’re reading with your kids, your friends, or just your favorite iced latte, reading in the summertime is a Grand Forks tradition worth keeping. So, sign up for a program, start a new book, and find your next favorite reading spot—it’s cooler than you think.