Summer Reading Challenge & Mini Reading Challenge

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The Summer Reading Challenge has now closed. Well done to all those who have taken part. For details of what is currently happening in libraries, make sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.






Calling all Gadgeteers!



Join the Summer Reading Challenge or Mini Reading Challenge and discover the amazing science, tech and gadgets that exist in the world around you!

We're challenging children (0 - 12 years) to read 6 books (or more), over the holidays. It's a great way for children to enjoy reading, in all formats, whether it be a book from the library, from home or something from our digital collection.

There are stickers to collect along the way (some are smelly) and we’ve got lots of fantastic activities for kids to take part in, such as animal handling, guest storytellers, science experiments, digital fun and tons of crafts!

If you need any help choosing something to read, just ask a member of staff or use the Book Sorter.


For those that complete the challenge, there are special rewards:

0-3 year olds will get a special gold sticker and a certificate

4-12 year olds will get a medal and a certificate

Completers will also be automatically entered into a prize draw:

0-3 years can win a cuddly Space Penguin

4-12 years can win free entry for four (adults & children) to Boulder Hut


If you join the challenge early, you will get 50% discount on the entrance fee into Boulder Hut (Climbing Wall Centre), to be used during the first two weeks of the holidays.


Dream Machine competition

You could also be in with a chance to win a very special prize by drawing a machine (or gadget) to catch a dream. Click here to find out more!


What's on?

We've lots of events and activities planned this summer. To find out what's happening in your local library please go to our Summer Reading Challenge events page. Many of our events can be booked online via Ticketsource.

All of our online events are listed below.



The Summer Reading Challenge has now closed. Well done to all those who have taken part. For details of what is currently happening in libraries, make sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.






Calling all Gadgeteers!



Join the Summer Reading Challenge or Mini Reading Challenge and discover the amazing science, tech and gadgets that exist in the world around you!

We're challenging children (0 - 12 years) to read 6 books (or more), over the holidays. It's a great way for children to enjoy reading, in all formats, whether it be a book from the library, from home or something from our digital collection.

There are stickers to collect along the way (some are smelly) and we’ve got lots of fantastic activities for kids to take part in, such as animal handling, guest storytellers, science experiments, digital fun and tons of crafts!

If you need any help choosing something to read, just ask a member of staff or use the Book Sorter.


For those that complete the challenge, there are special rewards:

0-3 year olds will get a special gold sticker and a certificate

4-12 year olds will get a medal and a certificate

Completers will also be automatically entered into a prize draw:

0-3 years can win a cuddly Space Penguin

4-12 years can win free entry for four (adults & children) to Boulder Hut


If you join the challenge early, you will get 50% discount on the entrance fee into Boulder Hut (Climbing Wall Centre), to be used during the first two weeks of the holidays.


Dream Machine competition

You could also be in with a chance to win a very special prize by drawing a machine (or gadget) to catch a dream. Click here to find out more!


What's on?

We've lots of events and activities planned this summer. To find out what's happening in your local library please go to our Summer Reading Challenge events page. Many of our events can be booked online via Ticketsource.

All of our online events are listed below.


  • Saturday 16 July, 10am and 11am: "We’re going on a story hunt", with John Kirk

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    Young children just love story hunts. Follow the story, copy the movements, do a drawing and find vital items around the house. John is a regular at our Summer Reading Challenge events and will have the children in fits of giggles and thoroughly entertained.

    Book your place for 10am here and for 11am here (sessions are via zoom).

  • Monday 25 July, 10.30am - Meet author Claire Freedman

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    Ever wanted to chat to a children's author? Here's your chance!!

    I’m Claire Freedman and I write picture books for young children. I’ve had over 100 children’s books published and am probably best known for the Aliens Love Underpants series. I’ll endeavour to make your virtual workshop as fun, enjoyable and informative as possible. You’ll be able to take a small peak at my office where I write, whilst I read you some of my stories. You’ll also have a chance to ask me any questions you like about me, my writing and how I became an author.

    Book onto this event here

  • Wednesday 31 August, 10.30am: Zoo Zoom

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    Bringing the zoo to you. Meet our real-life Animal Ambassadors and their experienced zoo keeper, Becky, live on screen. Learn all about different animals and creatures from the comfort of your own home, via zoom. Book you place here.