South Gloucestershire Council’s Library Service is inviting all primary school aged children to visit their local library this summer and take part in the 2025 Summer Reading Challenge.
This year’s challenge is called ‘Story Garden’ and encourages children to discover tales about nature, the great outdoors and the power of imagination. Those taking part will explore exciting new books, earn rewards, and enjoy nature-inspired events and activities.
The free challenge runs from 5 July to 13 September and supports children to become more independent readers, improving reading confidence over the summer break from school. It also supports positive mental wellbeing and can boost self-esteem.
Children aged between four and eleven, sign-up at their local library during staffed opening hours and collect a free activity bag to get them started. They then read books of their choice over the summer holidays and collect stickers to complete a collectors’ poster. Participants receive a medal and certificate when they complete the Challenge, along with a voucher for a free swim at their local Active Lifestyle Centre (provided by Circadian Trust). Craft activities are also provided to help keep the kids entertained.
Chair of South Gloucestershire Council, councillor Katie Cooper, said: “I’m delighted to see the Summer Reading Challenge return to South Gloucestershire libraries again this year. It’s always a highlight of the summer and a brilliant way to keep children reading during the school holidays.
“Taking part is a great way for children to stay engaged with reading over the summer break, helping them build confidence and develop a lifelong love of books. Our libraries are buzzing with free events, fun activities, and a fantastic selection of stories to explore. I’m proud to launch this brilliant initiative and encourage families across South Gloucestershire to visit their local library, join the challenge, and make reading a joyful part of their summer.”
Alongside the Summer Reading Challenge, South Gloucestershire libraries are holding free, fun activities throughout the summer. The activities are most suitable for primary school age children and include:
• Buzz & Scuttle Insect Collage Workshops with illustrator Marian Hill – Collage your own insect illustration and discover lots of cool insect facts. Children attending must be aged six or over and accompanied by an adult. Places are limited for this activity and must be booked. (Tickets are free at sglibraries.eventbrite.com)
• Tales & Snails – Marvellous makes to bring your stories to life. (Free drop in)
• Story Gardeners – Join us for ‘blooming’ good crafts. (Free drop in)
• Junk Box Challenge – Transform junk into something amazing. (Free drop in).
Dates and times of all activities and more about the Summer Reading Challenge can be found on our website www.southglos.gov.uk/summerreadingchallenge, or like us on Facebook for the latest updates www.facebook.com/sgloslibraries
Find your local Library at https://beta.southglos.gov.uk/leisure-and-culture/libraries/find-a-library/
The Summer Reading Challenge is produced by The Reading Agency and delivered in partnership with libraries.
