Over 1,000 Children Sign Up in First Week of Worcestershire’s Summer Reading Challenge

Running until 13 September, the challenge invites children aged 4 to 11 to dive into magical books inspired by this year’s theme, Story Garden, which celebrates nature, imagination, and outdoor adventures.

It’s completely free to take part, just sign up at your local library! The challenge is packed with fun incentives, including medals, certificates, and even free entry to National Trust Croome for those who reach key milestones.

Taking part in the Summer Reading Challenge helps to prevent the holiday reading ‘dip’, keeps children reading and ready for the new school year, supports smooth transitions between year groups and key stages, and makes reading a fun, social, and inspiring part of their summer.

In a further boost, a record-breaking 180+ young volunteers have signed up to support the challenge, a clear sign of how the challenge is inspiring the whole community.

Councillor Ian Cresswell, Cabinet Member for Environment and Communities at Worcestershire County Council said: “We’re absolutely thrilled by the incredible response to this year’s Summer Reading Challenge. To have over 1,000 children signed up in the first week is fantastic, and to break records with more than 180 young volunteers joining to support their local libraries is truly inspiring.”

“I encourage all parents to visit their local library with their children and discover everything it has to offer the whole family this summer.”

How the Summer Reading Challenge Works:

• children sign up at their local library to start their challenge
• they choose the books they want to read – any titles that spark their imagination
• library staff and volunteers are on hand to chat about the books and share recommendations
• rewards and incentives encourage progress – including free admission to National Trust Croome for reading four books
• children who complete the challenge (by reading six library books) receive a medal and certificate

Alongside the challenge, libraries are hosting a variety of events and activities for families throughout the summer. Ask at your local library or check the library events page for details.