North Somerset libraries helped 3,440 children take off with their reading this summer. The fun annual summer reading challenge helps children gain confidence in their reading ability and maintain regular reading over the summer. One parent commented: “We’ve loved taking part. It’s kept reading as part of our routine and has been a highlight of the week.” 

Our libraries saw the highest number of children participating in the challenge since 2016, and 59% went on to complete the challenge by reading six books. Activities including coding, crafts, Lego, and reading to Digger the dog took place in libraries over the summer giving children the opportunity to get creative and enjoy coming to the library. 

104 volunteers, 29 of whom were aged 14-24, helped give families the best experience of reading and libraries. Feedback from volunteers highlighted the benefits to them such as meeting new people and gaining or re-gaining confidence.