Summer Reading Challenge

Every year Northamptonshire Libraries deliver the Summer Reading Challenge for 4 to 12 year-olds.

The Summer Reading Challenge 2024 runs from Saturday 20 July to Saturday 21 September. This year's theme is ‘Marvellous Makers’, developed in partnership with national arts charity Create.

Focused on celebrating creativity this year’s Challenge will encourage children to explore new books and stories while taking part in free activities, from arts and crafts to music, dance and more!

Children can get their imaginations fired up through the power of reading and creative expression as they help the team of marvellous makers prepare for a fictional festival, all brought to life by celebrated artist Natelle Quek. 

They’ll also be rewarded with free incentives including stickers!

Find out more about this year's Challenge

To learn more, visit the national Summer Reading Challenge website.

History of the Challenge

The Summer Reading Challenge has been running since 1999 and helps to prevent the summer reading 'dip' that many young people experience during their summer holidays while schools are closed. With libraries' support, it provides a free, fun way to keep young minds active.

In 2023, the Summer Reading Challenge reached 685,821 children and families across the UK, with 635,115 children taking part through their local library service. The Challenge also drove 133,697 new children’s library memberships which is 42% higher than the 2019 pre-pandemic total.

Last updated 15 July 2024