Children in Northumberland encouraged to take part in Summer Reading Challenge fun

Northumberland Library Service is taking part in The Reading Agency’s Summer Reading Challenge, with activities and events to inspire children to develop a life-long love of reading.

‘Marvellous Makers’ is the theme for 2024. It is focusing on creativity, invention, and the magic of making things – from bringing their own stories to life to building fantastic imaginative creations.

Cllr Jeff Watson, the county council’s cabinet member for culture, heritage and libraries, said: “The aim is to keep youngsters reading during the long break to avoid them slipping back.

“But in Northumberland, the Summer Reading Challenge is more than just a reading programme. It is a community event that brings families together with a series of fun activities to keep young people entertained and occupied.

“It helps to maintain and improve reading skills, encourages creative thinking and provides a sense of accomplishment.”

Visits from popular children’s authors and illustrators, interactive sessions with professional storytellers, writing workshops to encourage children to create their own marvellous stories, competitions and celebration events to award certificates and medals, and a number of crafting, building and coding sessions are some of the things that have been planned.

Parents and guardians can register their children for the Summer Reading Challenge at any library and sign-up for events at Northumberland Libraries' Eventbrite page.

Participation is free and signing up provides access to almost 100 events across the county throughout the summer.