Ready, Set, Read!
Our libraries invite all children aged 4 to 11 to join an exciting Summer Reading Challenge, starting from Saturday 8 July.
This year the challenge is themed around the power of play, sport, games and physical activity, to encourage children to keep their minds and bodies active over the summer break.
Children can explore a thrilling collection of books loaded with team spirit, their favourite sporty (or not!) heroes, and plenty of fun.
Each book in the collection has been specially chosen by an expert group of readers for everybody taking part to enjoy.
By participating in the challenge, young people will have the opportunity to explore new reading material, develop skills, and discover new interests.
Councillor Leslie Pumm, Chair of the Equalities, Community Safety & Human Right Committee, said: “I am very proud of our libraries for taking part in a wonderful project fostering the love of reading in our youngest residents.
“Reading for pleasure isn’t just a great way to spend time during summer break, it can also improve literacy, promote empathy, and teach children how to grow their self-esteem and cope with difficult situations later in life.
“As children spend more time in front of a screen, introducing them to stories of sportsmanship and teamwork can motivate them to explore all that sport has to offer and inspire them to build foundations of a healthy lifestyle.”
How to join in on the fun
To take part in the challenge, a child or their caregiver should visit their local library and ask to sign up.
One of our librarians will then give them a special collector folder, where they can track their progress and set a reading goal.
Each time they finish a book, they can visit the library and collect special stickers and rewards for reading.
Those that aren’t able to visit the library can follow the challenge online.
To find out about more free family events over the school holidays visit our libraries webpage.
The Summer Reading Challenge
The Summer Reading Challenge is a programme created for children across the UK to help improve their reading skills and confidence over the summer holidays.
It’s been running for the past 24 years and with the help of local libraries, it’s provided a fun, free activity accessible for all.
As a part of the programme, children are challenged to read books over the summer and encouraged to enjoy reading for fun. Each year has a different theme – 2022 was ‘Gadgeteers’ and 2021 was ‘Wild World Heroes’.
Last year the Summer Reading Challenge reached 723,184 children and families across the UK, with 608,015 children taking part through their local library service.