Do you think that completing all 36 badges in the Connect Your Summer program is impossible for adults? While it can be daunting, a good strategy makes it totally doable. Here are some tips from experienced CYS participants, who have completed the 36 badge challenge numerous times.

1. Now is not the time to read War and Peace. Look for short books, like these.
2. Always carry a book with you. Ten minutes waiting for soccer practice to end can turn into ten minutes of reading time.
3. Find a book with lots of pictures.
4. Or a book that is all pictures. It's not cheating--it's a Graphic Novel.
5. Listen to a book. It's entertaining and you can claim an e-Lectrified badge.
6. Set aside some time to read every day. Maybe a half hour in the morning, or while you eat lunch.
7. Try a Young Adult title. Good content, quick reads and you might relate to your teenager better.
8. Have two or three books available. That way if you aren't in the mood for one, you can read a different one.
9. Make good use of the recommended lists for each badge.
10. Download a book to your phone or tablet so you always have a book with you.
11. Find a book your family will enjoy and take turns reading out loud. That counts, even if you are reading a children's book.
12. Try something different, like poetry, perhaps, or short stories.
13. Read something that can help you professionally. Bill Gates likes these, and he seems to do okay for himself.
14. Magazines! Grab one off the shelf, or check out one of the 175 or so available online with Zinio.
15. Plan a weekly trip to the library and attend a program or complete an On the Scene activity.
16. Participate in the Big Library Read and combine an e-book with a book discussion, all online.
17. Browse our Short Story collection to find a quick read.
18. Use library materials to inspire a daily chore, like cooking dinner. You have to eat anyway, right?
19. Challenge someone to participate with you. Motivate each other, attend programs together, or trade reading suggestions.
20. Don't procrastinate. And don't give up. The final day to claim badges is August 17: plan accordingly.