Houston Public Library (HPL) and Reading With A Rapper proudly announces the Lost & Found Summer Reading Challenge 2025. Running from July 1 through July 25, this city-wide initiative aims to empower Houston’s middle schoolers with access to powerful stories, engaging activities, and game-changing rewards.

Open to students in grades six through eight, the challenge invites youth to explore curated books across four culturally rich categories: Sports, Technology, Music, and Culture. Through a blend of interactive literacy tasks and community-based learning, RWAR is redefining how young people engage with reading in the summer months.

“Our mission is to show that literacy is more than just books – it’s the foundation of culture, creativity, and confidence,” said Jarren Small, Co-Founder and CEO of Reading With A Rapper. “By meeting students where they are, both mentally and physically, we’re turning libraries and Hibbett stores into launchpads for growth.”

To participate, students must apply online and then visit any HPL location to pick up a MYLink library card and check out at least one book. Participation isn’t complete until a book has been borrowed – reinforcing that real-world engagement is key to the experience.

Students must also submit a one to three-minute video explaining how the book and the Lost & Found Curriculum Musical Project impacted them. Top 50 participants will receive exclusive access to a Back-to-School Sneaker Party hosted at a local Hibbett store. The celebration will feature appearances by a Reading With A Rapper Student Athlete, live performances by Buddieroe, and new back-to-school gear including a free pair of Nike sneakers and a Nike backpack.

“We’re proud to support this dynamic program that combines reading with real-life incentives and cultural connection,” said Sandy Gaw, Director of the Houston Public Library. “By making libraries a gateway to creativity, community, and personal expression, we are helping our youth discover that literacy is a superpower.”

“We’re excited to host Back-to-School Sneaker Parties in partnership with Reading With A Rapper and its incredible network in Houston, to inspire a love of reading among kids,” said Sarah Sharp-Wangaard, VP Marketing of Hibbett. “Encouraging young readers is one of the most meaningful ways we can invest in their future – because strong minds create bright futures.”

By aligning with the City of Houston’s commitment to educational equity, RWAR’s reading initiative brings together schools, local businesses, and government to bridge the summer learning gap and make reading not just a skill – but a movement.

To apply and learn more about the challenge, visit: https://www.readingwitharapper.com/.

For media inquiries, contact:
Hibbett: Wendy Yellin at PR@hibbett.com
HPL: LaDonna Weems at ladonna.weems@houstontx.gov

About Hibbett, Inc.
Hibbett, headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, is a leading athletic-inspired fashion retailer with more than 1,000 specialty stores, located in 36 states nationwide. Hibbett has a rich history of convenient locations providing personalized customer service and bringing access to premium product, coveted footwear and apparel from top brands like Nike, Jordan, adidas and New Balance in underserved communities. Consumers can browse styles, find new releases, shop Toe-2-Head fits and make purchases online or in their nearest store by visiting www.Hibbett.com or www.KidsHibbett.com. Hibbett is owned by JD Sports Fashion plc, a leading global omnichannel retailer of Sports Fashion brands. Follow us @HibbettOfficial on Instagram and X and @Hibbett on Facebook and TikTok.

About Houston Public Library
We are a dynamic public service organization serving one of the largest and most diverse areas in the nation—both in population and geography. Our comprehensive, customer-focused service delivery strategy supports the 2.3 million residents of the City of Houston.

Our system is comprised of 44 public service units, including six Regional Libraries – anchored by our flagship Central Library – 28 Neighborhood and Express Libraries, three History Research Centers, four TECHLink centers, a Satellite location at the Children’s Museum Houston, the Mobile Express outreach unit, and the Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy. Together, we provide equitable access to resources, technology, and lifelong learning opportunities for all Houstonians.