Making the Case - Summer & Afterschool Meals in Libraries

Libraries are open to all and serve as essential community hubs. They welcome children and teens, provide engaging programming, and are a trusted environment.

Kids and teens need healthy meals to learn. However, when school is out – either over the summer or after the school day ends – too many students go without the nutrition they need.

Libraries have a unique opportunity to nourish both mind and body through summer and afterschool meals programs.

This resource outlines the benefits of starting a meal program at the library. It also describes what libraries need and don't need to execute the program. For libraries interested in starting an afterschool and/or summer meals program, this resource is great to share with colleagues and leadership who might not be familiar with the summer and afterschool meals program.