Rotherham Libraries is launching its Summer Reading Challenge this summer, inviting children and young people across Rotherham to take part in a free reading programme during the school holidays.
The challenge, themed "Read to the Beat", combines music and storytelling to make reading engaging. Children aged 4 to 11 can sign up at any Rotherham library or online, then choose what they want to read — including books, comics or audiobooks. As they read, they collect rewards and work towards a certificate upon completion.
What makes it work
The Summer Reading Challenge is the UK's biggest reading for pleasure programme for primary school children. It is designed so that every child can take part, regardless of their reading level.
Cllr Lynda Marshall, Rotherham Council's Cabinet Member for Waste Services, Leisure and Green Spaces, said: "We want every child in Rotherham to achieve their full potential, and reading for fun can help them build a range of skills as well as their confidence. The Summer Reading Challenge is a great way to keep children reading over the holidays in a fun but challenging way."
Why reading matters
Reading for pleasure boosts creativity and imagination, strengthens mental wellbeing and helps children build empathy by seeing the world through different perspectives. Across the country, only one in three children say they enjoy reading, and one in four leave primary school without strong reading skills.
Activities and celebration
A range of free activities will take place in Rotherham libraries throughout the summer, including story sessions and creative events linked to the "Read to the Beat" theme. Children who complete the challenge will be invited to a special celebration event at Magna in October.
Families can find out more by visiting their local library or visiting the Summer Reading Challenge website at summerreadingchallenge.org.uk. Details of library activities and sessions are available on the Council's website at www.rotherham.gov.uk/events