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This year’s theme, Story Garden: Adventures in Nature and the Great Outdoors, inspired children to tap into a world of imagination through reading.

The challenge celebrated the magical connection between storytelling and nature, encouraging young readers to explore books, eBooks, and eAudiobooks from their local libraries. In total, over 127,000 items were borrowed and enjoyed across the county.

Children were encouraged to read six books of their choice over the summer holidays, collecting stickers and activities along the way, and receiving a medal and certificate upon completion. The challenge is designed to help prevent the ‘summer reading dip’, helping them to maintain their reading skills and confidence.

More than 100 new members joined their local library during the challenge, and over 200 young volunteers helped keep the momentum going by supporting events, chatting with participants about their books, and creating a fun, welcoming atmosphere.

Hannah Perrott, Assistant Director for Communities at 91��Ƭ��County Council said: “It was wonderful to see so many young readers engaging with books and discovering the joy of reading over the summer. Reading is such an important skill that underpins lifelong learning, and it’s fantastic to know that thousands of children were developing those skills in such a fun and positive way. Huge congratulations to everyone who took part, and a big thank you to our amazing volunteers and library staff who helped make it all happen.”

And it doesn’t stop at summer. 91��Ƭ��County Council’s libraries are welcoming spaces for children all year round, offering books, events, activities, and digital resources that support literacy, creativity, and curiosity. Whether it’s joining a Lego club or storytime session, exploring a new hobby, or simply finding a quiet place to read, there’s something for every child to enjoy at their local library.

For more information visit our Summer Reading Challenge webpage.