More than 8,000 children sign up for Summer Reading Challenge

The event, which kicked off in the county’s libraries on 5 July and continues until 14 September, aims to encourage children to read during the summer holidays.

This year’s theme, ‘Story Garden,’ invites children and families to delve into stories intertwined with the beauty of nature. For extra motivation, children are rewarded with stickers for each visit to the library and those that complete the challenge will receive a certificate, medal and seed shape for planting.

This year’s challenge has over 1,000 more young readers picking up books and getting involved than at the same point last year.

Hayley Coles, Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture at Staffordshire County Council, said: “It’s absolutely brilliant to see so many children getting involved in this year’s Summer Reading Challenge.

“It’s a fantastic way to keep children reading while school is out for the summer and it’s perfect for younger ones too. With over 1,000 more participants than this time last year, it’s clear that the challenge is inspiring even more children to discover a real love of reading.

"There’s still time to join in and our amazing library staff are on hand to help children sign up and choose books for the challenge. I’d encourage families not already signed up to visit their local library and take part.”

Staffordshire Libraries have also been hosting an array of events and activities across the county during the challenge, with more events planned for the remainder of the summer. These include a series of Dr Dolittle storytelling events, currently under way around Staffordshire, and upcoming readings from Percy Drip author Chris Warsop at Cannock Library on 15 August.

Last year, 9,787 children from across Staffordshire took part in the challenge, with staff hoping to beat that figure this year.

Further information on this year’s challenge and to find out about events near you, please visit Staffordshire Libraries Website or contact your nearest library.