LEICESTER Libraries are getting ready to launch their annual reading challenge, with free fun activities on offer over the long summer holidays.
This year’s summer reading challenge – which encourages children to read for pleasure – takes the theme of ‘Marvellous Makers’ and officially kicks off on Saturday 29 June.
It’s free and easy to take part – simply visit your local library three times between 29 June and 15 September 2024 and borrow and read at least six books to complete the challenge. You can also borrow books online from Leicester Libraries’ ebook or eAudiobook collections.
Once signed up to the challenge, children will receive ‘Marvellous Makers’ themed collectibles on all of their visits – including a poster and sticker packs.
There are also lots of exciting activities to get involved in. Visit a library in the first week of the summer holidays (15-19 July) and make a character, creature, object, plant or other feature to add to an amazing summer street scene picture for each library.
Free family fun will take place across the city from 22 July to 15 August, when each library will host an afternoon of creative activities. Ask at your library for details - and don't forget to borrow a book!
Children also get the chance to design their own trophy and pick up a certificate when they complete the challenge.
Very young children can join in at libraries’ weekly Toddler Time sessions. You can also borrow books and collect stickers from children’s centres, and the Children’s BookBus will be in Town Hall Square on Wednesday mornings from 17 July to 14 August.
Adults can be a role model by reading six books too - borrow and read six books from Leicester libraries in July and August for a chance to win £30 worth of books.
City council head of neighbourhood services Lee Warner said: “There’s plenty for children to do at their local Leicester library during the summer holidays. All of our libraries are taking part, and as well as borrowing books you can get involved in free activities to help keep children entertained and engaged right through the summer.”
The 2024 summer reading challenge is produced by The Reading Agency and delivered in partnership with libraries and Create, a leading charity igniting change through creativity.
For more information, see leicester.gov.uk/libraries