This year’s Summer Reading Challenge for children got under way at Stone library and others across the county at the weekend.
With a record breaking 14,098 children aged four to 11 signing up in 2013, library staff are anticipating a good turnout over the summer for ‘Mythical Maze’, this year’s theme.
The annual challenge is designed as a fun way to encourage youngsters to keep up their reading levels during the long summer holiday, and is supported by lots of free library activities, a dedicated website and – new for 2014 – a Mythical Maze app which enables your digital device to access video, animated messages and games.
Youngsters will be challenged to read six books, find their way around a fantastical labyrinth from the world of legend and mythology, and collect stickers of each character along the way.
Completers receive a special medal and certificate.
Staffordshire‘s Library Leader County Councillor Mike Lawrence said: “It’s important to encourage our children to keep reading over the long summer break to avoid the ‘summer learning dip’. I’m sure this year’s myths and fantasy themed challenge, with all the fun and games planned in local libraries and available online, will help our children go back to school feeling really positive about learning.
“As usual, we are indebted to all the young volunteers from across the county who offer their free time and enthusiasm to help deliver the scheme. Last year 46 volunteers came forward, providing invaluable support to both library staff and youngsters taking part.”
The Summer Reading Challenge launched in libraries across Staffordshire on Saturday 12th July.
Children can sign up for the FREE challenge at their local library and will receive a free starter pack.
The Summer Reading Challenge, delivered by Staffordshire Libraries, is produced by The Reading Agency, the independent charity working to inspire people to read more, supported by children’s publishers.
For more information about this year’s Summer Reading Challenge, visit www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk
