Children from all over Denbighshire are heading for their local library in their thousands to join Circus Stars, this year’s Summer Reading Challenge.
Every child who joins the free challenge will be rewarded for visiting the library and borrowing books regularly over the summer.
Bethan Hughes of Denbighshire Library Service, said: “The Summer Reading Challenge is one of the most important activities we do to support children’s attainment and literacy skills – over 3,700 children took part last year. The challenge is free, not competitive and each child is rewarded for their effort at their own level.
“We work closely with all the primary schools in the county to promote this challenge to the children as it makes such a huge impact on their reading skills and their motivation to read.”
Children who took part in last year’s challenge commented:
“I think it is good because it helps your reading.” (Jess, 10)
“I have enjoyed some good books especially about machines.” (Edward, 8)
“I really enjoyed it and found books that I thought I wouldn’t like” (Tabby, 11)
“Children enjoyed and it’s a good way of stimulating reading over the summer. A good way of getting children to use the library regularly.” (Parent of boys 6 & 9)
Huw Lewis (pictured), Minister for Housing, Regeneration and Heritage in the Welsh Government said: “Reading is not only an essential life skill, but also a great source of enjoyment for children. Instilling a passion for reading early on is crucial to help them develop their skills and our libraries can play a central role in supporting this.
“Libraries have diversified considerably over the last decade but they are still true to their reading roots and offer resources in a range of formats, from traditional books to online tools.
“This project is a fantastic way to get our children reading and I encourage everyone to pop along to their local library this summer to take advantage of what’s on offer.”
An interactive Circus Stars website www.circus-stars.org.uk links children with top authors and illustrators, has games to play and gives them space to talk about their favourite books. Circus Stars also promotes the local library as a place of wonder for children, where library staff can offer invaluable advice and guidance.
The Summer Reading Challenge is just one of many exciting schemes public libraries are developing to help children develop a love of reading, gain confidence and get new skills. Call in to your local library or visit www.library.wales.org to find out more.
