Children across Wiltshire are being invited to discover the joy of reading this summer as the popular Summer Reading Challenge returns to libraries across the county from Saturday 4 July.
More than 6,300 children took part through Wiltshire libraries last year, and organisers are hoping even more young readers will join in during the 2026 summer holidays.
The free challenge, created by The Reading Agency and delivered through libraries across the UK, encourages children aged four to 11 to read six books over the summer. As they progress, they collect rewards before receiving a certificate and medal when they complete the challenge.
This year’s theme, Read to the Beat, celebrates the links between reading and music, encouraging children to explore stories in fun and imaginative ways.
Participants can choose any books they enjoy, including fiction, non-fiction, comics, graphic novels, picture books, eBooks and audiobooks, making the challenge accessible for readers of all interests and abilities.
Cllr Mel Jacob, Cabinet Member for Libraries, said, “The Summer Reading Challenge is a great way for children to keep reading over the school holidays while enjoying everything our libraries have to offer. I’d encourage families to visit their local library, sign up for free and take part.”
Children can register at any Wiltshire library from Saturday 4 July and have until Saturday 5 September to complete the challenge. Library membership is free, and everyone who signs up will receive a sticker booklet and a joiner’s bookmark.
Wiltshire libraries also run Story Sharers for children under four and Story Adventurers for older children who want to set themselves a longer-term reading goal.
The Summer Reading Challenge aims to keep children engaged with reading during the holidays, helping to build confidence, imagination and a lifelong love of books while making libraries a fun destination for families throughout the summer.
More information about the Summer Reading Challenge at https://readingagency.org.uk/
