Term 6

Medway Library Reading Challenge

Join Medway Libraries for their free Summer Reading Challenges for the whole family! With a fun Story Garden theme, you can explore the connection between storytelling and nature together. There are lots of free events for all ages this summer, including theatre shows, artist-led workshops, Mama G performances, storytimes, Lego Clubs and craft sessions. To book, visit any Medway library or visit their website.

This year the libraries have four reading challenges. You can participate individually or as a family:

• The Mini Challenge, for 0-3 year olds

• The Summer Reading Challenge, for 4-11 year olds

• The Teen Reading Challenge, for 12-17 year olds

• The Adult Reading Challenge, for everyone aged 18+

All challenges are free, and run until Saturday 13th September.

Why take part?

The Summer Reading Challenges for children and teens help young people retain their literacy skills over the summer holidays, spend time away from screens and encourage reading for pleasure. Reading for pleasure increases wellbeing, creativity and empathy in all ages, is the single most important indicator of a child’s future success and statistics show teenagers who read for pleasure are more likely to attain higher paid jobs as adults. Reading through the summer holidays will provide your children with skills and memories that will last a lifetime- it is an investment in your child’s future.

Research consistently shows that children who read (independently, or with an adult or older sibling) not only excel academically but also cultivate stronger family bonds, are more creative and have improved emotional wellbeing.

The Children’s Summer Reading Challenge

The children’s Summer Reading Challenge is to read 6 library books before Saturday 13th September, and for every book children read they'll win a prize, including stickers, bookmarks, and badges. The final prize is a certificate and special medal!

All library books count towards the challenge, including but not limited to:

• Fiction books with stories

• Graphic novels such as Dog Man and Bunny vs Monkey, comics, and manga

• Non-fiction books, full of facts and information

• Joke books

• Poetry books

• eBooks borrowed from our eLibrary

• Audiobooks- ideal for long car journeys!

The main thing is for children to choose their own books- books they want to read and enjoy! Younger children can have help to read their books, e.g. from an adult or sibling.

It's quick and easy to sign up; just visit any Medway library. Happy reading!

Recognition of the Summer Reading Challenge in School

To celebrate your child’s active engagement in the library's reading challenge, any completed certificates please share with your child’s Class Teacher in September by Wednesday 17th September 2025.  Your child will then be entered into the Library Challenge prize draw in KS1/EYFS and KS2 for a Golden Reading Token for the school Reading Vending Machine on Friday 19th September 2025.