Libraries launch Summer reading challenge (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Libraries launch Summer reading challenge

4:00pm Friday 6th July 2012 in News

Wiltshire children are being encouraged to keep reading during the holidays as the popular 2012 Summer Reading Challenge launches on July 14.

This year’s challenge is based around Story Lab, where four characters will help Professor Cortex collect and share stories to inspire thousands of young imaginations.

All materials to take part are available free to 4 to 11-year-olds from Wiltshire libraries, and there is an interactive website at www.story-lab.org.uk so youngsters can share their reading experiences.

Sarah Hillier, children’s librarian at Wiltshire Council, said: “The challenge is all about developing and sustaining a love of books and reading, and about sharing that reading with families and friends.

“It’s also a great fun way of helping children to develop their reading skills by trying out new books and receiving rewards along the way. It really does make a difference."

Last year 8,156 children across the county joined the scheme, with 4,494 children reading all six books and more than 30,000 books being read in total.

Children taken part are encouraged to read six or more books of their choice, and there is a medal for every child who completes the challenge.

The challenge is co-ordinated nationally by independent charity The Reading Agency and is supported by children’s publishers. It runs until September 8.