Summer Reading Challenge 2026: Read to the Beat!
Enjoy reading this summer with the Summer Reading Challenge.
Discover how stories and music can inspire imagination, creativity and fun.
What is the Summer Reading Challenge?
The Summer Reading Challenge is a free, fun reading activity for children aged 4–11, delivered through libraries across the UK.
Children sign up at their local library, set their own reading goals and enjoy reading anything they like – from stories and comics to fact books, audiobooks and more.
Throughout the summer, they’ll:
- Choose books that interest them
- Collect rewards and track their progress
- Build confidence and keep their reading skills strong
How does it work?
It’s simple to join:
- Sign up at your local library
- Pick your books – anything you enjoy counts!
- Read over the summer at your own pace
- Collect rewards as you go
- Complete the Challenge to receive a certificate and medal
Why take part?
- It’s completely FREE
- It helps children stay confident in reading over the summer
- It’s a great way to discover new books and authors
- It offers fun, creative activities for the whole family
For parents and carers
Taking part is easy and flexible – children can read anything they enjoy and work towards their own goals.
Libraries will also be running free events and activities throughout the summer to keep children motivated and engaged.
Ready to get started?
➡️ Pop into your local library
➡️ Ask a member of staff to sign up
➡️ Take home your starter pack and begin your reading journey