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The Summer Reading Challenge, which is produced by The Reading Agency and delivered in partnership with libraries, asks children to read or listen to books over the summer.
Each child will be given a free collector’s folder when they register, followed by a free scented sticker for each book they read. Those who complete the challenge by reading six library books of their choice before Saturday 9 September will collect a certificate and a medal (while stocks last).
North Somerset libraries are also hosting a series of free events for children to celebrate this year's Summer Reading Challenge ‘Ready, Set, Read!’.
Detective Dog
An engaging theatrical experience which brings to life this well-loved Julia Donaldson and Sara Ogilvie’s story. These free events will feature captivating puppetry, surprising smells and toe-tapping live music. Taking place at the following libraries, these can be booked on Eventbrite:
- Clevedon Library – Monday 14 August, 10.30-11.30am
- Nailsea Library – Wednesday 16 August, 2-3pm
- Portishead Library – Wednesday 16 August, 10.30-11.30am
- Weston Library – Monday 14 August, 2-3pm
- Yatton Library – Tuesday 15 August, 10.30-11.30am
Shake, Rattle and Roleplay
Delivered by Theatre Orchard, these free magical storytelling sessions will have an extra sprinkling of music and drama for those aged under five and their families. Taking place at the following libraries, these should be booked directly through the relevant library. Library contact details can be found on the council’s website.
- Clevedon Library – Tuesday 15 August, 11.15-11.45am
- Nailsea Library – Thursday 24 August, 9.45-10.15am
- Pill Library – Thursday 10 August, 2-2.30pm
- Portishead Library – Tuesday 15 August, 9.30-10am
- Weston Library – Thursday 10 August, 10-10.30am
ZooLab ethical and engaging animal encounters at The Campus
- ‘The Zagaro’ storytelling session – Tuesday 25 July 4-5pm
Travel with ‘The Zagaro’ the rat on a trip – based on the story of a famous children’s book – through the deep, dark woods and meet a host of weird and wonderful animals on their way. Book a space at this free event on Eventbrite - ‘The Zagaro’ storytelling session.
- Ready, Set, Go! storytelling session – Monday 31 July, 3.45-4.45pm
Animals are ready to put their best foot (or scale) forward to save the rainforest at the annual Naturetown sports day. Follow a selection of ZooLab's animals as they compete in long jump, javelin, gymnastics and relay. Book a space at this free event on Eventbrite - Ready, Set, Go!
In addition to these events, a number of free sport-themed art and craft activities are being held throughout North Somerset libraries this summer. Children can make their own blow football, cheerleader pompoms, basketball or balloon table tennis to take home, providing hours of fun at the libraries and at home! People should contact their local library to pre-book a place.
Councillor Mike Solomon, North Somerset Council’s executive member responsible for libraries, said: “Our libraries provide a wonderful free resource for people of all ages and it’s so important to get children used to using their local library from an early age. The Summer Reading Challenge is a great way to encourage reading and visits to the library, not only to borrow books but to take part in a vast number of exciting and fun free events and activities that our fantastic library team organise.”
Councillor Catherine Gibbons, Deputy Leader with responsibility for children’s services and lifelong learning, said: “Nurturing a love of reading from a young age is so important – it’s not only a vital skill but also reading for pleasure provides us with many hours of enjoyment throughout our life. The Summer Reading Challenge is a long-established scheme which has always proven to be tremendously popular with children and I want to encourage as many families as possible to take part this year.”
While children love the long school summer holiday it is well known that reading habits and ability can take a bit of a dip between July and September. The Summer Reading Challenge is an excellent, fun way of making sure that young readers can keep practising and maintain their love of reading while not in school. North Somerset schools have been asked to encourage their students to take part.
Ready, Set, Read! will encourage children to keep their minds and bodies active by using the free materials available in the library or online at LibrariesWest or the challenge website (https://summerreadingchallenge.org.uk).
Keep up with the latest news and events happening in North Somerset libraries at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/libraries or on Facebook (facebook.com/nslibraries), Twitter (twitter.com/NSomLibraries) and Instagram (instagram.com/northsomersetlibraries).