The importance of summer reading

Children's reading can dip during the long summer holidays if they don’t have regular access to books and encouragement to read for pleasure.

In previous years, The Reading Agency’s Summer Reading Challenge has encouraged over 700,000 children to regularly visit libraries and read books during their summer holidays.

There is no other free reading activity that involves so many children, introduces families to their library, encourages children to choose books freely and independently and is endorsed by parents, teachers and the Department for Education.

Summer Reading Challenge 2023

This year's challenge runs from Saturday 8th July to Sunday 3rd September in North Somerset Libraries.

Developed in collaboration with the Youth Sport Trust, the 2023 Summer Reading Challenge will celebrate play and participation, encouraging children to get involved in games and sports in any way that best suits them.

Head to your local library anytime from Saturday 8th July to start your challenge.

Summer Reading Challenge 2022

This year's challenge runs from Saturday 9th July to Saturday 10th September in North Somerset Libraries.

The theme is 'Gadgeteers', developed in partnership with the Science Museums Group. The challenge aims to show children that science is all around us every day and inspire them to unleash their curiosity and creativity.

Summer Reading Challenge 2021

The annual event is back!

It's FREE to take part.

Sign up in any North Somerset library from Sat 10th July.

Read 6 books and collect a reward per book.

Complete the challenge by Sat 11th September to receive a certificate and medal.

Run by The Reading Agency, the Summer Reading Challenge encourages 4-11 year olds to keep reading books over the summer to boost their reading skills. This year's theme is

Wild World Heroes- a very special nature-themed challenge in partnership with the World Wildlife Fund- that will inspire children to stand up for the planet.