Children invited to join the Mischief Makers at Reading Libraries this Summer

Summer Reading Challenge

READING libraries are calling for children to sign up to read six books this summer as part of Mischief Makers – the Beano themed Summer Reading Challenge 2018, which kicks off on Saturday 14th July.

The free reading challenge aims to get more children reading over the summer period – a time when children’s literacy skills traditionally dip. Children are challenged to borrow and read at least six books over the holidays, and are rewarded for each book read. This year’s theme is Mischief Makers – based on the Beano. Dennis, Gnasher and friends are inviting children to read at least six books. They will be able to drop in to their local library and pick up a collector’s folder, set off on a hunt for Beano town’s famous buried treasure and then come back for stickers, a foldup game and Dennis themed wristband. Successful children will also be presented with a special Mischief Makers certificate and a medal.

Councillor Sarah Hacker, Lead Councillor for Culture, Heritage and Recreation, said:

“This is a fantastic way for youngsters to keep on reading during the summer holidays, while having fun with the jam packed programme of events. We know that children’s reading can sometimes dip during the long summer holiday and so the challenge importantly provides a great incentive to get children into their local library. Last year we had a record participation, and I’m really hoping even more youngsters join in with this year’s Beano themed challenge and make use of their local library again this summer.” The event has been running since 1999, and in Reading 1,842 children between the ages of four and 13 took part in last year’s Animal Agents themed challenge, up 4.5% from the previous year. This year’s challenge launches on Saturday 14 July, with a whole programme of events and activities planned in libraries across Reading, including the new Whitley library in South Reading Community Hub, for families over the summer period. A full timetable of activities will be available from 14 July at: www.reading.gov.uk/libraries For more information on how to take part, please contact your local library.

ENDS

Notes to Editors

The Reading Agency runs the annual Summer Reading Challenge in partnership with the Society of Chief Librarians. This national reading for pleasure programme is now in its 20th year. Children can find new books to read, win some great book prizes and share recommendations with other readers on: www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk The Summer Reading Challenge reaches children and young people of all ages. For the pre-schoolers there is a mini-challenge while young people (aged 13 to 24) can volunteer and support younger children taking part, as part of The Reading Agency’s Reading Hack programme. Volunteering provides a quality workplace experience for young people in libraries inspires them to think about their future career and increases their employability as they gain useful life skills and confidence. Last year over 7,500 young people across the UK volunteered: readinghack.org.uk