McDonald’s and Local Libraries Bring Back Happy McReaders Summer Program

The Happy McReaders Summer Program is returning for another year, bringing together participating McDonald’s restaurants and local libraries to encourage summer reading. Through the program, children can earn a free Happy Meal by reading 10 books and completing a Happy McReaders punch card available at participating libraries.

Families can visit any participating library to pick up a Happy McReaders punch card. Each time a child reads and returns a book, they’ll receive a punch on their card. After reading 10 books, children can redeem their completed card at a participating McDonald’s restaurant for a free Happy Meal.

Since its inception, the Happy McReaders program has helped thousands of local children continue the joy of reading. Last summer, young readers participating in the Happy McReaders program read more than 100,000 books, a remarkable achievement that highlights the program’s positive impact on literacy while helping children stay engaged throughout the summer months.

For local McDonald’s Owner/Operators, supporting education and literacy is an important way to give back to the communities they serve. Through Happy McReaders, they are proud to help encourage summer reading while creating fun, rewarding experiences for families at their local libraries and McDonald’s restaurants.

Happy McReaders punch cards are available at participating libraries while supplies last through Monday, August 31, 2026. Families can learn more about the program and view a complete list of participating libraries on the McDonald’s Happy McReaders Webpage.