About our programmes
Summer Reading Challenge
The Summer Reading Challenge, presented by The Reading Agency, is delivered in partnership with public libraries and funded by Arts Council England. The Challenge encourages children aged 4 to 11 to enjoy the benefits of reading for pleasure over the summer holidays, providing lots of fun as well as helping to prevent the summer reading ‘dip’. Each year the Challenge motivates over 700,000 children to keep reading to build their skills and confidence.
This year’s Summer Reading Challenge – Marvellous Makers – is all about creativity. From dance to drawing, junk modelling to music, there’s something for everyone! Children will be able to find new reads linked to their favourite creative arts, and access free activities at the library.
Marvellous Makers has been developed in partnership with Create, a leading charity bringing the creative arts to those who need it most. The bespoke illustrations for Marvellous Makers are created by the brilliant illustrator, Natelle Quek.
The Challenge starts on Saturday 22 June in Scotland and online, and on Saturday 6 July in England and Wales.
Running in July-September every year, there are two ways children take part, at the library OR online:
- You can join the Challenge at your local library and take part in person. The library will give you a special collector folder, stickers, and other special incentives, and help you find books to read for your Challenge.
- Alternatively, take part in the Challenge online by signing up here on the official website! Set a reading goal and log your books on your profile. When you reach your goal you will unlock a virtual badge and certificate.
Please note, the in-person and online Challenges are separate. Physical incentives like medals are only available via the library, for those taking part in the in-person Challenge.
You can keep up to date with all of The Reading Agency’s latest children’s activities and offers by following us on Facebook.
Winter Mini Challenge
The Winter Mini Challenge encourages children to keep up their reading habits over the winter holidays, with this free-to-access website featuring rewards for reading and reviewing books.
Taking part is simple. Children read at least three books of their choice in the winter holidays and add them to their online profile. Reaching their online reading goal will unlock a limited-edition virtual badge and a special Winter Mini Challenge certificate to print off and keep.
If your child enjoyed taking part in a Challenge and you can help us share the experience with even more children, please consider donating to The Reading Agency by clicking here.
If you would like to make a larger gift, legacy pledge or can support our fundraising in any way, please email [email protected]. The Reading Agency receives 100% of your donation. Obtain bill payer’s permission. Customer care 08448479800. Charity No 1085443.