Children urged to join Summer Reading Challenge as 6,000 sign up in first three weeks

Maria aged 9, enjoying the Summer Reading Challange

More than 6,000 Staffordshire children have already signed up for this year’s Summer Reading Challenge, but library staff want more to join.

The popular reading challenge which kicked off on 6 July is running in all Staffordshire libraries over the summer holidays.

Open to children aged four to eleven years old, the scheme hopes to encourage youngsters to read for pleasure over the summer holidays.

Children are encouraged to borrow and read books from the library, collecting rewards including stickers, a medal and certificate along the way.  Younger children under four can also take part in a mini challenge and parents can find out more at their local library.

One dad visiting Tamworth Library with his son said:

“My son loves the competitive element of the challenge and has already read three books!"

Talking about the challenge, Victoria Wilson, Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture at Staffordshire County Council said: “The Summer Reading Challenge is always a busy activity and it’s great to have so many children signed up so early in the challenge.

“As a child growing up, I loved reading.  I couldn’t get enough books, so I’m well aware of the positive impact it can have on people’s lives and learning.  Our libraries service has always recognised the importance of encouraging children and young people to read for pleasure and the earlier they can start the better.

“It’s also great for keeping children entertained over the summer but also gives us a great opportunity to highlight all the other brilliant things available in our libraries.  I do hope that more children and parents take the opportunity to sign up.”

Staffordshire libraries are free to join and offer access to a wide range of services and activities.  These include books, e-audio books, resources, PCs, groups, low-cost activities for families and friendly welcoming spaces.  Activities supporting the Summer Reading Challenge are also running in most libraries and include reading groups, art classes and craft workshops.

Victoria Wilson talks about the challenge in this short video.

Further details on the Summer Reading Challenge and activities are available here