South Gloucestershire Council

Published: 13/07/2012

Children from across the district are encouraged to take up the ‘story lab’ themed challenge, by reading just six books of their own choice during the summer.

Everyone who completes the challenge will receive a certificate and a medal.

Just visit any library in South Gloucestershire between 14 July and 16 September and ask for a free 3D lab to get started.

Cllr Claire Young, chair of communities committee, said: “I know that children really enjoy taking part in the summer reading challenge. Year after year, children, parents, teachers and library staff say that not only is it a great way to keep them entertained over the holidays, but also that taking part in the challenge increases children’s reading confidence, skill, enjoyment and motivation.

“More than 6,000 children took part last year and I hope that this year more children than ever will take part in this exciting challenge.”

The challenge is supported by a range of activities in libraries, kicking off with a visit from children’s illustrator Chris Fisher. Chris will be bringing Story Lab to life with his fun, fast illustrations at Filton Library on Saturday 14 July between 10.30-11.30am. The free event will launch the challenge and Cllr Janet Biggin, chair of the council, will be signing up the first children to take up the challenge at the library.

There is plenty more activity fun for five to 11 year olds in all libraries including:

• The Wonderful Shadow Puppet Theatre: make your own puppet and take part in the show
• Get set, go! Fun crafts to kick start the summer
• Let the stories begin! Make your own time machine and see where your imagination takes you
• Horrid Henry literacy workshops with Explore Learning in selected libraries. Places are limited for these workshops so must be pre booked with the host library

Alongside the summer reading challenge for children, this year some libraries in South Gloucestershire are inviting parents to also get into reading by taking part in the Six Book Challenge. For anyone wanting the perfect book for beside the pool, a sizzler for the seaside, or just a great book to relax with in the garden, the Quick Reads collection, is ideal for the holidays.

Cllr Young, added: “What makes the Six Book Challenge so great is that it is such a simple scheme, these books are quick and easy to read and written by well known authors. They are great for adults who don’t read regularly and want to get back into reading.”

The challenge will be running from 14 July until 16 September and anyone completing the challenge by reading 6 books will get a free DVD or CD hire. For more information contact the participating libraries: Cadbury Heath, Filton, Hanham, Kingswood, Patchway, Staple Hill, or Yate on 01454 868006.

For more information visit www.southglos.gov.uk/libraries or telephone 01454 868006.