Get Set For This Year's Summer Reading Challenge
Merton libraries encourage local young people to read six books over the holidays
Calling all mischievous 4-11 year olds who are ready to get involved in Merton Council’s fun, engaging and exciting Summer Reading Challenge, starting on Saturday (July 14) and taking place in all Merton libraries.
The Summer Reading Challenge is a national initiative that encourages children to sign up at their local library and read any six books of their choice from the collection. Reading can be undertaken in many formats and as well as books children can also use audio books or access some of the many e-books available through the Council’s online resources.
Last year, a total of 39,549 books were borrowed by children over the summer holidays and this year organisers are hoping for even more, as well as an increase in the 3,000 young people who took part before.
This summer’s theme is ‘Mischief Makers’, based around the well-loved childhood title of ‘The Beano’ which is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year; a theme perfect for all the young troublemakers out there who are ready to break the record in Merton for numbers participating.
Each time a book is finished, rewards and incentives are given out and after completing the challenge, and each child receives their very own certificate and medal to show for their efforts. The names of all those children finishing six books will also be entered into a Grand Draw, with bumper prizes for a lucky few children presented by the Mayor.
There will also be a host of themed competitions and challenges taking place within local libraries alongside the challenge, like our ‘Design Your Own Roman Shield Competition’, as well as related online games and resources where fellow young people have helped pick out their favourite books to recommend.
Merton council’s cabinet member for community and culture Councillor Nick Draper said: “I love supporting the summer reading challenge. I tell children about it at as many school assemblies as I can, and get as excited about it as they do. Occasionally, in the autumn, children will stop to tell me they read all 6 books, and it makes me feel so proud for them.”
So what are you waiting for? Ready. Set. Read!
How to apply:
If you are under 16 years old please complete this form.
If you are aged 16+ please complete this form.
Please send the completed application form to marketing.assistant@merton.gov.uk or hand in at your local library.
July 4, 2018