Children can take part in a summer of mischief at libraries across Gedling borough this summer.
The borough’s libraries are calling for children to sign up to read six books over their summer holidays as part of Mischief Makers, the theme for this year’s Summer Reading Challenge.
Aimed at four to 11-year-olds, the theme is inspired by the much-loved children’s title Beano, which celebrates its 80th anniversary.
The Challenge requires youngsters to borrow and read any six library books over the summer.
Children can sign up for the scheme at their local library, where they will be given a colourful collector’s map of Beanotown to keep a record of their reading journey.
As children read at least six library books over the summer, they will receive special stickers, some with mysterious smells. By adding these stickers to their map, young readers will help Dennis, Gnasher and friends solve clues and discover the treasure.
Children choose the books they want to read on their challenge – as long as they are borrowed from the library, all reading counts.
There’s a certificate and medal for every child who completes the challenge by reading the six books.
Last year in Nottinghamshire 9,732 children took part in the scheme.
Peter Gaw is chief executive for Inspire, who run librieries on behalf of Nottinghamshire County Council. He said he hoped lots of children across the borough would get involved in this year’s challenge.
He said: “The Summer Reading Challenge is a great scheme to encourage children to keep up the reading habit over the summer, with research showing it can help prevent the ‘dip’ in reading that can occur over the long break. We also know from the feedback we receive each year from children and families that the challenge can inspire and enhance a love of reading which can support children through their school years and beyond.”
Councillor John Cottee, chairman of Nottinghamshire County Council’s Communities and Place committee has joined in this year’s challenge by pledging to read six library books himself.
He said: “The Summer Reading Challenge is a great way to encourage youngsters to read from an early age.
“I’m sure this year’s Beano theme will capture the imagination and I hope that local young people will be making full use of their local libraries by borrowing and reading six books over the summer holidays as I have pledged to do.”
Mischief Makers will be running in all Inspire libraries from 14 July – 9 September. www.inspireculture.org.uk/summerreadingchallenge
