Join the Big Friendly Read at Devon libraries
This summer holiday Libraries across Devon are challenging children of all ages to take part in their Summer Reading Challenge – part of a national programme coordinated by The Reading Agency.
Inspired by the works of Roald Dahl, and to celebrate his 100th birthday, this year’s theme is “The Big Friendly Read” and is aimed at children aged from 4 to 11. “The Big Friendly Read” is running in libraries across the Devon and it is completely free. Children are challenged to visit their local library and read 6 books through the holidays to earn rewards and on completion they receive a medal and certificate.
Kate Mackenzie from Devon Libraries says, “Every year we run this challenge and it never fails to capture the imagination of so many children. We are keen for people to come along to their local library during the long summer holiday to see what fun and creative places they can be. Children love the Summer Reading Challenge because it is fun, parents love it because it is a free activity, and schools love it because it helps children keep up their reading skills through the holidays.”
The Summer Reading Challenge is one of many campaigns being delivered by Libraries Unlimited, the mutual who took over the running of Devon Libraries in April. Ciara Eastell, CEO says, “We are delighted to be running the challenge this year, it’s a wonderful way of getting our children and young people reading for fun through the holidays and a great opportunity to celebrate one of our most loved children’s authors. We have had great success with the challenge with over 12,000 children taking part in Devon Libraries last year past. This year we’re hoping to increase the number of children finishing the challenge so that it is our best year yet!”
Every year, thousands of families all over the country take part in the UK’s biggest reading event for children in libraries.
Children can read whatever they like during the challenge, earning stickers and rewards and there's a medal and certificate for everyone that finishes.
The Summer Reading Challenge is designed for all reading abilities. Devon Libraries worked with local schools before the holidays to give out information to encourage children to take part. Children and families are encouraged to pop into their local library to sign up and to take part in exciting events during the holidays.
There are lots of resources online for children and parents/carers about the Summer Reading Challenge. They can help children keep track of their reading not only during the challenge, but all year round as well as find new books to read, take part in competitions and play games.
Further details about the Summer Reading Challenge including a fun YouTube film can be found at http://summerreadingchallenge.org.uk . To take part pop into your local library.
For more details about events and Devon Libraries please visit www.devonlibraries.org.uk
