Derby libraries' book challenge aims to help children read over summer holidays

Summer holidays may be much deserved down-time, however free and fun activities in Derby are also fun to explore.

Reading is a fabulous way to be transported to new worlds and a fun challenge this summer means you can keep little ones entertained without splashing the cash.

All Derby libraries are participating in the Summer Reading Challenge, which organisers say is the ‘UK library sector’s biggest’ free annual reading event.

The full list of Derby libraries can be found here.

The Reading Agency is behind the summer reading challenge.

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It is delivered by libraries in partnership with Create, a multi-award-winning charity that aims to empower lives, reduce isolation and enhance wellbeing through the creative arts.

Derby libraries said: ‘While the school summer holidays are a well-deserved break for children, their reading can dip during the long summer holidays if they do not have regular access to books and encouragement to read for pleasure.

‘This can be a problem for schools come the new term so, we’re backing the Reading Agency’s Summer Reading Challenge once again to support you and your child’s reading journey over the summer holidays!’

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The Summer Reading Challenge will run throughout the summer holidays in 2024.

Reading is thought to positively impact a child’s mindset, boosting confidence with reading which leads to a more optimistic attitude towards reading and learning.

Organisers say the Summer Reading Challenge gets three quarters of a million children into libraries to keep up their reading skills and confidence during the long holidays.

This year’s theme is Marvellous Makers, illustrated by Natalie Quek. It’s all about creativity which takes many forms from dancing and drawing, to creating junk modelling and music.

There really is something for everyone!

How does Summer Reading Challenge 2024 work?

The challenge runs from Saturday July 6 til Saturday August 31, 2024.

Children are encouraged to read six books during summer holidays.

They can be stories, picture books, audio books, eBooks, factual books - anything as long as they are borrowed from the library.

For younger children and those learning to read, it is OK to read or share library books with a parent or carer.

Children aged from 4 to 11 years-old can take part, but younger and older children are welcome to join in too.

Children must be a member of the library to take part, joining instructions can be found here.

Fun events have been scheduled to coincide with the challenge, making it a time for children to enjoy interactive activities.

These include making a clay dragon, creating a magazine from scratch, and a Chicken Licken song and dance session.

Booking is essential. All events are free and will take place in libraries across Derby.

For more information about the events visit Derby Libraries website here.