Staffordshire County Council is saying a big thank you to young readers in Stone for helping to make ‘Record Breakers’, this year’s Summer Reading Challenge, such a great success.
Almost 8,500 children across the county completed the task of reading at least six books over the summer, and claimed their rewards. A special poster will be displayed in every library in Staffordshire, showing the numbers of those involved, and thanking all the youngsters, parents, volunteers and school staff who supported and encouraged so many children to take part.
The annual challenge, delivered by Staffordshire Libraries, is designed as a fun way to encourage youngsters to keep up their reading levels during the long summer holiday, and was supported by a host of extra record-breaking themed library activities and a dedicated website.
· 13,124 children started the Challenge
· 8,321 children completed the Challenge
· Percentage of starters who completed the Challenge – 63%
· 685 children became new library members in order to take part
· 123 young volunteers aged 12 to 24 supported library staff with the Challenge
· 236 Summer Reading Challenge events were held in libraries
· 5,326 children attended these events
· 59.1% of children surveyed thought they were better readers as a result
Staffordshire’s lead for Learning and Skills, County Councillor Ben Adams, said: “Another successful year for the Summer Reading Challenge in the county’s libraries, which is a tribute to the hard work and dedication of staff and our small army of volunteers. I’m delighted that 685 children joined their local library in order to take part in the challenge. A big thank you is due to all involved.”
