Melksham’s library is taking part in the Summer Reading Challenge to help keep children reading in the summer holidays.
The challenge is for children aged four to 11-year-olds to read six library books over eight weeks of the summer in return for various fun prizes, including a medal and certificate on completion.
This year the challenge runs from Saturday 15th July to Saturday 9th September. There will be an initial registration period in the first two weeks of the challenge, where children will receive a collector’s folder, then after this period, from 31st July, they are invited to return to talk about the books they have read and start collecting their stickers. Children can also continue to register throughout the summer.
Melksham community library manager, Wendy Barker said, “Children often have a dip in their reading over the summer the Summer Reading Challenge, produced by The Reading Agency and delivered by libraries, has been proven to stop this as well as changing children’s attitudes in a positive way towards reading and libraries.
“Although there is a sport and games theme, children can read any six library books of their choice, in fact they can read more than six books!”
Children will be asked about their reading when they collect stickers but they don’t have to be able to read – reading with a parent/carer also counts; written book reviews are acceptable too. Children can also read eBooks and listen to audiobooks if it suits them. Staff will be available to offer reading recommendations too.
It’s free to join the challenge and to take out a library membership visit the website ‘Join the library – Wiltshire Council’ or visit the library where library staff will be on hand to support reading choices. Children can also take part in the challenge online via the website, summerreadingchallenge.org.uk, where they can rate and review books, download activities, and access video content, games and quizzes.
For any queries, email, libraryenquiries@wiltshire.gov.uk
