Peterborough Libraries & Archives has announced the return of its annual Summer Reading Challenge, which will run from 4 July to 5 September 2026. This year, the programme is themed Read to the Beat and encourages children across Peterborough to explore the connection between books and music through reading.
The challenge is designed for children aged 4 to 11, with an additional mini-challenge available for those aged 0 to 3. Organised by The Reading Agency in partnership with public libraries, this year’s programme is powered by Universal Music Group UK. The initiative aims to maintain literacy levels during the summer break, and official figures show that 95% of participants continue reading at least once a week after taking part, with 70% reporting increased reading confidence.
Children can sign up for the challenge at no cost. New members can join the library service online for free to receive a temporary membership number. The 2026 collection features 55 titles, including graphic novels, poetry, and dyslexia-friendly books, brought to life with illustrations by award-winning author and illustrator Harry Woodgate. Participants earn a collector’s card after finishing their first book and stickers for subsequent reads. Those who read six library books will receive a free bookmark and a certificate to mark their achievement.
In addition to the reading programme, families can attend free crafts and activities at seven library locations throughout the city in July and August 2026. These sessions, which include activities like story writing, are all inspired by the Read to the Beat theme. Last year, more than 2,000 children in Peterborough participated in the challenge, which is part of the largest reading for pleasure programme for children in the UK.
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