Summer Reading Challenge returns next week

The annual Summer Reading Challenge starts with a fun-packed event at Central Library on Saturday, 6 July. The free event runs from 10.30am to 1.30pm and families can drop in at any time.

Special guest is Libraries’ Children’s Patron, award-winning writer and illustrator Steve Antony, who will be launching the Summer Reading Challenge with free family activities.

Becca Bubbles will be wowing attendees with giant bubble-making fun. Children can ride the Smoothie Bike and pedal power tasty fruit smoothies. Families can also enjoy Story Time with Steve Antony and library staff, try crafts and play games. Children and adults can pick a free read in the new books giveaway and free wildflower seeds to grow at home. Children can also register for the Summer Reading Challenge and collect their free Challenge Pack.

Running until 8 September, the Summer Reading Challenge encourages young people to read for pleasure. They are invited to complete six reads over the summer, collecting a celebration certificate and medal from any library once they have completed the challenge.

Children can join the Summer Reading Challenge at any Swindon library. They just need to be a library member to take part. Becoming a member is easy, either at any Swindon library or on the Swindon Libraries’ website.

Library staff want all children to be able to take part in the Summer Reading Challenge and, as a result, any oustanding children’s fines because of overdue books will be waived on return of the books. If a child has lost books, or their library card, parents or carers can speak to library staff who will make sure all children who want to can take part.

The 'Marvellous Makers' theme celebrates creativity in all its forms. It aims to inspire children to express themselves in creative ways, tap into a world of imagination and storytelling, and read what they love in ways they enjoy.

Included in the Summer Reading Challenge Pack, which every participant will receive while stocks last, is a ‘Make a Marvellous Monster’ competition by Steve Antony. Steve will judge all entries, with one winner chosen from each of Swindon’s 14 libraries. Winners and their families will be invited to a special prize event to meet Steve and receive one of his signed books.

Older children can try the Book Bingo Challenge and have a chance to win a £30 shopping voucher.

To support children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) to engage with the Summer Reading Challenge, a new Quiet Hour will be piloted for families to browse before libraries open.

Relaxed, interactive storytelling performances are planned. For children with more profound learning and physical needs, Swindon Stories, in collaboration with Swindon SEND Families Voice, has created an inclusive activities sheet. Copies will be available from libraries, in Summer Reading Challenge packs, and on the Swindon Libraries website.

Allie Brown, Development Manager at Swindon Libraries, said: “We’re really excited about this year’s Summer Reading Challenge.

“Most important is that it’s for all children and young people, not just those who already love reading. We’re keen to welcome non-readers and emphasise reading is for pleasure. There are so many ways children can join in. There’s no one or right way to take part.

“We’re running free events across the summer to appeal to all children and show libraries as places of fun and creativity. Activities being finalised include story times, crafternoons, puppet making, music, Lego and more.

“We’re also planning outdoor Story Trails to link in with the Swindon Summer Trails Challenge, so families can join in while enjoying beautiful local parks. All event details will be included in Summer Reading Challenge packs and on the library website.

“Central Library will be running Summer Reading Challenge events for older children as part of Swindon’s new Signal Festival. Activities may include songwriting, short film making and screenings, creative writing, podcasting, video game design, virtual reality experiences, reading groups, board games, library tours, and a multi arts day.”

Councillor Jim Grant, Swindon Borough Council's Cabinet Member for Communities and Libraries, said: “I’m delighted it’s Summer Reading Challenge season. It’s a wonderful celebration of reading and libraries that inspires children to explore new worlds and activities.

“The events sound fantastic and are designed to appeal to all children, especially those who may not yet enjoy reading or think libraries aren’t for them.

"I hope children from all parts of Swindon discover and grow their love of reading, and I’m looking forward to hearing about what they discover on their journey.”