The Summer Reading Challenge encourages children aged 4 to 11 to enjoy the benefits of reading for pleasure over the summer holidays, providing lots of fun as well as helping to prevent the summer reading ‘dip’.

This year’s Summer Reading Challenge theme – Ready, Set, Read! – has been created in partnership with Youth Sport Trust and illustrated by the brilliant children’s writer and illustrator Loretta Schauer. This year’s sport and play-themed initiative aims to keep children’s minds and bodies active over the summer break, empowering young people to forge new connections with others. The Challenge and the accompanying book collection show that imagination and play can unlock endless possibilities and that the library is where this starts.

There are two ways you can take part: at your library OR online: 

• You can join the Challenge at your local library and take part in person. The library will give you a special collector folder, stickers, and other special incentives, and help you find books to read for your Challenge. 

• Alternatively, take part in the Challenge online by signing up here on the official website! Set a reading goal and log your books on your profile. When you reach your goal you will unlock a virtual badge and certificate. 

Please note, the in-person and online Challenges are separate. Physical incentives like medals and certificates are only available via the library, for those taking part in the in-person Challenge.