State Senator Steve Stadelman is opening his annual Summer Book Club online today and with formal kickoff rally June 17.

During his summer reading challenge, Senator Stadelman encourages students in the 34th legislative district that he represents to read eight books over the summer. Those who accomplish the challenge are invited to celebrate at an August pizza party.

For a third year, Stadelman is basing his Summer Book Club at the Boys and Girls Club Stenstrom Unit, where the kickoff and pizza party will take place. Students at Stenstrom participate in the book club as part of their Summer Enrichment Program where experienced teachers focus on building math and reading skills through small group lessons, hands-on activities and interactive Chromebook exercises.

But the kickoff rally and the pizza party are open to any student whose parent or guardian signs and returns a form listing the eight books that were enjoyed to fulfill the challenge. The kickoff rally -- where Senator Stadelman will read a book aloud -- is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. June 17 at the Stenstrom Unit, 609 Kilburn Avenue, Rockford.

Families can download a brochure by visiting https://www.senatorstadelman.com/SBC. Or paper copies can be obtained by visiting public libraries in Rockford, Loves Park, Cherry Valley and Belvidere beginning the week of June 10.