Join the Summer Reading Challenge 2025

You can take part in the Summer Reading Challenge at your local library or online. The challenge runs from 21 June to 30 September and follows a theme of nature and the great outdoors with Story Garden.

Join the Summer Reading Challenge

Get creative, get reading this summer and join the Summer Reading Challenge! Discover new adventures in nature with this year's challenge - Story Garden. Uncover magical creatures, vibrant plants, and enchanting landscapes in the books you choose this summer.

There are two ways children can take part - and both are free:

- In person at your local library.  A librarian will give you a special collector folder and help you find books to read. You'll collect special stickers and rewards for your reading.

- Take part online here. You'll set up a profile with a reading goal and log your books. When you reach your goal, you will unlock a virtual badge and certificate.

The in-person and online Challenges are separate and the folder and rewards are only available via the library, for those taking part in person.

This year's Challenge theme, Story Garden, is an enchanting take on nature and the great outdoors. Libraries will be transformed into immersive gardens of adventure where children's imaginations can flourish, supported by free activities and resources.

 

About the Summer Reading Challenge

The Summer Reading Challenge is developed by The Reading Agency, delivered in partnership with public libraries, and funded by Arts Council England. Each year, the Challenge motivates around 700,000 children to keep reading over the summer holidays.

Taking part in the Summer Reading Challenge can help avoid a 'dip' in reading levels that many children experience following the long summer break when they return to school.

The bespoke illustrations for Story Garden were created by Dapo Adeola