Kingswinford Library is inviting children to join its free Summer Reading Challenge, running from 27 July to 1 August 2026.
The programme, part of the national 2026 Read to the Beat campaign delivered by The Reading Agency and powered by Universal Music Group UK, encourages children aged 4 to 11 to read six books over the school holidays. Those who complete the challenge earn a certificate, and free craft activities are included throughout the week. Councillor Damian Corfield, Dudley Council’s Cabinet Member for Libraries, said the initiative offers young readers “a joyful journey into stories, adventure, and discovery.”
Session times for the challenge week are: Monday 11.00am to 12.30pm, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 10.00am to 10.30am, Friday 11.00am to 12.30pm, and Saturday 10.00am to 12.00 noon. Booking is essential for the Rattle and Rhyme sessions on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings. Kingswinford Library, on Market Street, is one of 13 branches across Dudley operated by charitable social enterprise GLL under the Better brand on behalf of the council.
The Read to the Beat theme celebrates the connection between reading and music, with illustrations created by award-winning author and illustrator Harry Woodgate. Stephanie Rhoden, GLL Partnership Manager, described how “This year’s theme inspires children to explore the magical connection between storytelling and nature.”
The Summer Reading Challenge has run annually in UK libraries for many years, coordinated nationally by The Reading Agency to help prevent the summer slide, where children’s reading abilities can dip during the long break from school. Families in Kingswinford can sign up at the library during the challenge week at no cost.
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