The Westwood Public Library welcomed young readers and hockey fans on June 29 for the Boston Bruins Summer Reading Kickoff, a statewide initiative that encourages children and teens to keep reading throughout the summer.
Held in partnership with the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners and the Massachusetts Library System, the free event featured Bruins prospects participating in the team's summer prospect camp.
Children and teens enjoyed a hockey-themed story time, where the players shared stories about hockey, teamwork and some of their favorite books. Participants also created a hockey-themed craft, tested their skills during a hockey shootout and received the official 2026 READ poster featuring Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy. The afternoon concluded with an autograph session with the visiting players.
Following the event, the Westwood Public Library thanked the Boston Bruins, the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners and everyone who attended, calling it a "truly one-of-a-kind event." Library staff also expressed appreciation to the Bruins and the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners for making the program possible and said they look forward to watching the young players' futures while noting they are already "amazing readers."
The Boston Bruins have partnered with the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners and the Massachusetts Library System since 2009 through the "When You Read, You Score!" program, which promotes reading and literacy at public libraries across the Commonwealth. Approximately 200,000 children, teens and adults participate in statewide summer reading programs each year.
Photos courtesy of the Westwood Public Library
