Summer has passed its halfway point, which means now is a perfect time to check in with your summer reading goals. Have you surpassed expectations? Have you read so many books that your brain is full to bursting?

Or are you stuck on the same novel you started back in June?

No judgement either way; we all read at our own rhythms, and there’s much to be said for taking things slow. Still, if you’re looking for something to jumpstart your brain, here are a few ways the library can help you find your groove again.

1. Read a shorter book. If you just can’t seem to focus long enough to get through the latest Dungeon Crawler Carl, why not give your patience a break and pick-up something you can finish in an evening? If you’re on a science fiction kick, check out Martha Wells’ Murderbot series, each entry of which is under two hundred pages long.

2. Need some motivation? Consider signing up for Adult Summer Reading Bingo, exclusively for Yarmouth residents. Plant a seed, collect shells or rocks, or simply bring your library card into the library, and you can check off a box. For every four checks in a row, you’ll get a raffle ticket for one of our excellent Merrill Memorial Library tote bags. (For a bonus ticket, write a book report and email it to ckleftis@yarmouthlibrary.org.)

3. Change genres and formats. Merrill has poetry, short fiction, and plays available for your perusal on the second floor in the study area right next to the large print books. While you’re there, you can see the latest art exhibit, and maybe get inspired!

4. Don’t worry about it. Seriously. I know from personal experience that it’s easy to get caught up in feeling guilty about not getting enough done, but it’s summer. Who cares? If you aren’t in the mood for a good book, go for a walk, see a movie, or do absolutely nothing at all. It’s fine. The books will wait for you.

Zack