Children in Royal Tunbridge Wells can once again take part in the annual Summer Reading Challenge when it returns to The Amelia Scott on 4 July. This year’s theme, Read to the Beat!, encourages young readers aged 4 to 11 to explore stories and songs, with illustrations by award-winning author and illustrator Harry Woodgate. The free challenge runs through to 12 September, aiming to help prevent the summer reading slide that affects one in four children who cannot read well by age 11.
The Reading Agency delivers the programme in partnership with public libraries and Universal Music Group UK, which powers this year’s musical theme. After signing up at the Children’s Library, each child sets a personal reading goal and borrows books, eBooks, or audiobooks over the summer. Staff provide a collector folder, and children collect stickers and rewards as they progress. The charity states that the theme inspires children to explore the connection between stories and songs, discovering how reading and music both ignite imagination and creativity.
The Summer Reading Challenge is the UK’s biggest reading for pleasure programme for children, bringing approximately 700,000 children into libraries each year. During the 2024 edition, over 13 million books were read and issued through libraries across the country. The Amelia Scott houses Tunbridge Wells Library and operates as a combined library, arts, and heritage centre run by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council in partnership with Kent County Council. Those who complete their reading goal receive a certificate and medal at the end of the challenge.
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