The Kern County Library is holding its annual countywide Summer Reading Challenge, beginning in June.

Readers of all ages are encouraged to pick up a book or two this summer to instill a love for recreational reading.

The goal of the challenge is to curb summer learning loss, the Library said in a news release. Studies show youth who read during the summer often outperform others once back in school, the Library said.

Challenge participants will earn a free book and incentives once the challenge is completed.

The Summer Reading Challenge offers more than 2,500 free events and programs for all ages, exposing the community to new skills, ideas and learning opportunities. Events include magic shows, puppet shows, reptile shows, STEAM events, Lunch at the Library and many more programs.

Last year, more than 53,000 people attended Summer Reading Challenge events at libraries countywide.