+14 Summer Reading Challenge 2023, ‘Ready, Set, Read’ is kicking off at your local library

Enthusiastic older children, aged 14+, who are passionate about reading are also being sought to take on the role of a Young Volunteer for the Summer Reading Challenge. The role involves encouraging children to complete the challenge, listening to the children talk about the books they have been reading and taking part in related activities. It is a great opportunity to get some volunteering experience and learn new skills. To find out more about becoming a Young Volunteer email library@buckinghamshire.gov.uk

Clive Harriss, Buckinghamshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture and Sport said: “It is never too early to develop a love of books and reading and the Summer Reading Challenge is the perfect way to introduce children to the joys of picking up a book and losing yourself in a story. The educational benefits of regular reading for children are well known but the effect on mental health and wellbeing are of equal importance, for those of all ages. What is more, borrowing a book from your local library is completely free, with books to suit every possible taste.”

The Summer Reading Challenge has been running since 1999 and helps to improve children’s reading skills and confidence over the summer holidays, ensuring they are ready for their return to school. With the help of local libraries, the Summer Reading Challenge is accessible to all and provides a fun, free activity for children. In 2022, the Summer Reading Challenge reached 723,184 children and families across the UK, with 608,015 children taking part through their local library service, a 31% increase compared to 2021. The challenge also drove 132,223 new children's library memberships nationally, 40% higher than the 2019 pre-pandemic total.

About Buckinghamshire Libraries

Buckinghamshire Libraries provide library services to the residents of Buckinghamshire and the surrounding areas. As well as traditional lending services, Buckinghamshire Libraries provides an extensive e-Library, Reminiscence material, a thriving Home Library Service, Schools Library Service and hosts many successful and valued events in the community.

For more information on Buckinghamshire Libraries please visit: buckinghamshire.gov.uk/libraries

About The Summer Reading Challenge

The Summer Reading Challenge is run by the Reading Agency for children across the UK and is delivered in partnership with public libraries. It has been running for the past 24 years and aims to foster a lifelong love of reading and tackle the drop off in reading that can happen over the school summer holidays. Children are challenged to read books over the summer and encouraged to enjoy reading for fun. Each year has a different theme – 2022 was ‘Gadgeteers’ and 2021 was ‘Wild World Heroes’. https://summerreadingchallenge.org.uk/

About The Reading Agency

The Reading Agency is a national charity that tackles life’s big challenges through the proven power of reading. We work closely with partners to develop and deliver programmes for people of all ages and backgrounds; our vision is for a world where everyone is reading their way to a better life.

We help 1.9 million people benefit from reading every year, through our programmes, our tireless campaigning, our excellent networks and our power to influence, challenge and make change happen. www.readingagency.org.uk