Children across Cambridgeshire can discover the joy of reading this summer by signing up to the musically themed 2026 Summer Reading Challenge.
The free Challenge at Cambridgeshire Libraries is open to pre-school and primary school-aged children of all reading abilities and encourages young readers to keep up their reading during the school holidays, building confidence and creativity along the way.
As part of the National Year of Reading, this year’s theme, ‘Read to the Beat’, celebrates the connection between music and storytelling, encouraging children to explore how rhythm, sound and words can inspire imagination.
Brought to life with vibrant illustrations by award-winning author and illustrator Harry Woodgate, ‘Read to the Beat’ invites children to combine rhythm, creativity and reading throughout the summer.
Running from Saturday, 4 July, until Saturday, 5 September, the Challenge encourages children to read six books of their choice, with everything from fiction and non-fiction to audiobooks and eBooks counting towards their goal, as long as they are borrowed from the library.
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Children will be able to collect a sticker for each book read from Saturday 18 July – there is a new one to collect each week.
Children can join by visiting any of the 33 library locations across the county, including the three mobile libraries.
Library membership is free and easy to arrange, making it simple for families to take part.
Cllr Alison Whelan, Chair of the Communities, Social Mobility and Inclusion Committee at Cambridgeshire County Council, said: “The Summer Reading Challenge is a fantastic way to keep children engaged over the school holidays when a child's interest in books can otherwise dip – helping them to build confidence, creativity and a lifelong love of reading.
“Through Cambridgeshire Libraries we’re ensuring that every child has fair access to opportunities that support their development and wellbeing, giving them the best possible start in life. I encourage families across the county to visit their local library and take part this summer.”
The Summer Reading Challenge is just one of the activities which will be promoted by Cambridgeshire County Council through the upcoming #GetActivated campaign, which will highlight free or low-cost activities for children, young people and families to help them stay healthy and connected throughout the summer holidays.
As part of the campaign, residents will be encouraged to share their activities on social media using the hashtag #GetActivated.
