Story Garden Summer Reading Challenge launches across Wiltshire libraries

Tuesday, 1 July 2025 06:00

Wiltshire Council libraries are launching this year’s Summer Reading Challenge with a new theme – Story Garden – to help children aged 4 – 11 explore their imagination, build reading confidence, and discover the joy of books over the summer holidays.

Children can sign up for free from ‘Super Sign-Up Saturday’ on 5 July, with the challenge running until 6 September. From Monday 21 July, they’ll be able to start collecting stickers for each book read and will earn a certificate and badge when they complete the challenge by reading six books (or the equivalent).

This year’s theme – Story Garden - Adventures in Nature and the Great Outdoors – celebrates the connection between storytelling and nature. Children can read any books of their choice, including eBooks and audiobooks.

Cllr Mel Jacob, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities, Engagement and Corporate Services, said: “This much-loved and important campaign encourages children to keep reading over the summer in a fun and accessible way. It also gives families and carers a way to support reading at home – and helps prevent the learning dip that can happen over the holidays.”

As well as the core challenge, some libraries will also be offering special themed activities, as well as regular activities such as rhyme times and reading challenges for younger and older children. Children can also take part online via www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk

In 2024, more than 6,500 Wiltshire children took part in the challenge – with 84% saying it helped them enjoy reading more, and nearly 90% saying it made them feel happy.

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