Children across Westmorland and Furness are encouraged to join this year’s Summer Reading Challenge which launched on Saturday 5 July and will run until mid-September.
Delivered locally by Westmorland and Furness Libraries, the Summer Reading Challenge is organised by the Reading Agency and encourages children aged 4 to 12 to read six library books over the summer holidays. From fiction and non-fiction, to poetry, joke books or picture books, children can read any literature of their choice.
This year’s theme is ‘Story Garden’ and aims to inspire children to tap into a world of imagination through reading, exploring the magical connection between storytelling and nature. The initiative not only champions a love for reading but also helps to prevent the summer learning ‘dip’, ensuring children are ready for the upcoming academic year.
Signing up to the Summer Reading Challenge is quick, easy and free. To sign up you need to be a library member. If you or your child is not yet a member, you can join for free at westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk and get instant access to the library service’s online resources - including thousands of books, magazines and comics.
BorrowBox is also free to library members and is a great way to get free access to Audiobooks and eBooks that can all be used to complete the challenge.
Once you’re signed up, you’ll receive your Story Garden collector folder, collecting stickers and incentives over the course of the summer holidays. Those that complete the challenge will be entered into a prize draw for a selection of prizes including a one-year family membership to the National Trust, a magazine subscription for one year, and a one day family adventure pass generously donated by The Cumberland Building Society and Gilbert Gilkes and Gordon Ltd. Completers of the challenge will also receive a certificate and medal.
Some libraries will also be hosting events to celebrate this year’s Summer Reading Challenge with stories, colouring and games. Find out more about the events on our Trybooking page.
Children can access extra content online at the Summer Reading Challenge website.
Councillor Helen Chaffey, Westmorland and Furness Council Cabinet Member for Community Services, said:
“We’re proud to support the Summer Reading Challenge again this year, which is a fantastic way to keep children engaged, curious and inspired over the summer holidays.
“Reading sparks imagination, builds confidence and opens up new worlds. Our libraries are amazing places and whether you’re into fiction, non-fiction, poetry, joke books or picture books, there’s something for everyone!
“We hope families across our communities will take part in this year’s challenge and rediscover the joy and adventure that reading can bring.
“Don’t forget our digital offer too where there are thousands of free eBooks and audiobooks available, all free and easily accessible on your smart devices.”
For more information on this year’s challenge and how to get involved, visit our website.