The Summer Reading Challenge is officially underway in Derbyshire – and there will be free events at the libraries in Alfreton, South Normanton and Somercotes as part of it.

This year’s challenge – ‘Ready, Set, Read’ – is all about sports and games after The Reading Agency teamed up with the Youth Sport Trust.

The challenge is for children aged four to 11 and sets them the task of reading six or more library books during the summer holidays.

Children will be awarded stickers for reading books and, if they complete the challenge, they will be given a medal and a certificate.

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The aim of the challenge is to ensure that primary school children’s reading continues while they’re not at school.

Councillor Barry Lewis, leader of Derbyshire County Council and cabinet member for strategic leadership, culture, tourism and climate change, said: “The long summer break can have a negative effect on children’s reading, so the Summer Reading Challenge is a fantastic way to keep those reading skills sharp.

“It also introduces Derbyshire youngsters to all the brilliant things our libraries have to offer them.

“Encouraging children to read independently and helping them to develop a love of reading and books has huge benefits for their education and enjoyment for the rest of their lives.”

Children can sign up to take part in the Summer Reading Challenge at any library in Derbyshire and it is completely free to take part in.

Read more: Summer Holiday Clubs, Activities and Events ☀️

A series of special events and activities will be taking place at the libraries in Alfreton, South Normanton and Somercotes as part of the challenge.

Alfreton Library

Severn Square, Alfreton, DE55 7BQ

Get Set, Play!

Every Tuesday during the school holiday between 10am and 2pm.

A free drop-in event for families. There will be a selection of games and puzzles for all ages to enjoy.

Crafty Saturday

Saturday, July 29 and Saturday, August 26, between 10.30am and 12.30pm

A free drop-in event for families. Craft activities will be linked to the reading challenge.

Family-led Board Games

Saturday, August 5 and Saturday, September 2, between 10am and 1pm

A free drop-in event for families. Traditional board games, memory games and puzzles.

Medal Ceremony

Wednesday, August 30, between 11am and 12pm

Booking essential – contact the library.

Somercotes Library

Bank Street, Somercotes, DE55 4JE

Summer Reading Gang

Any Friday morning from July 21, between 10.30am and 12pm

A free drop-in event for children in Year 6.

Somercotes Library

The Hub, Shiners Way, South Normanton, DE55 2AA

Children’s Craft Event

Tuesday, August 15, between 11.30am and 12.30pm

A free event for children aged between three and 12 years old.

Booking is required. To book a place, call 01629 535000.

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