The Summer Reading Challenge is a fun, free way for children aged 4–11 to stay motivated to read during the summer holidays. Children set their own reading goal and can read anything they enjoy – all books count!
One in four children hasn’t reached the expected level of reading by the age of 11 and many will struggle to keep up at secondary school, despite reading for pleasure being one of the single biggest indicators of children’s development.
The Summer Reading Challenge provides:
- Amazing way to boost confidence and self-esteem.
- They will be better prepared to return to school in the autumn.
- The Challenge supports the move into a new year group.
- The library provides free access to books and fun family activities all through the summer.
Your child will be part of a UK-wide programme developed by The Reading Agency and delivered in partnership with the public library network.
How to take part? (Library or online)
At the library: you need to be a library member. Join the Library Now
- Visit your local Barking and Dagenham library to sign up.
- Set a summer reading goal and choose from books, eBooks, or audiobooks
- Receive a special sticker booklet and collect rewards for reading
Or online
- Visit summerreadingchallenge.org.uk
- Sign up, set a reading goal, and get book recommendations
- Unlock digital badges and earn a printable certificate
Don’t miss out – head to your local library and sign up this summer!