The AISD Libraries 5 Book Dive (5BD) Summer Reading Program encourages all AISD students to read at least five self-selected books over the summer, as research has shown that reading just five books can protect students from the drop in reading levels known as the “summer slide” which disproportionately affects low- income students (Alexander, Entwisle, & Olson, 2007; Kim, 2004). 

The 5 Book Dive program encourages students to read any five books that they choose during the summer. The website provides lists of books which have been curated by AISD librarians to engage and encourage students to read; the new lists for Summer 2024 are now available on the website. (These lists are not presented as nor intended to be “required” reading; the selection of summer reading material is up to individual students and their parents/guardians.) 

Program information and resources are available at https://tinyurl.com/5BookDive. The website provides:

• Lists of recommended books for summer reading by level: PK-2 English, PK-2 Spanish, 3-5 English, 3-5 Spanish, Middle School, and High School.
• Printable bookmarks which can serve as reading logs. 
  • Campuses may choose to recognize students who bring their summer reading logs to school in the fall; some simple and low/no-cost suggestions for doing this are available on the website. 
  • Some local bookstores are also offering incentives; see the website for details. 
• Additional resources for students, parents, and educators.