Space Hop Summer Reading Challenge boldly goes into record figures

During the summer months nearly 2,300 children have been involved in activities taking place throughout all Rotherham libraries, over 350 more children than last year. 

The Summer Reading Challenge is a national event designed to encourage children and families to get excited about reading and take "one giant leap" into libraries. 

The adventure starts in their local library, where young Space Hoppers meet Finn, Jessie, Nabil and Safiya (the crew of the Ex Libris) as they embark on their mission to set up the first lunar library. Children are then asked to read six or more books of their choice with collectable incentives and rewards, plus a certificate or medal for every child who completes the task. 

Last year saw over 180 children at Wickersley Library complete their challenge and Rotherham Libraries wants to ensure as many children as possible cross the finish line into the "final frontier". 

All children completing the Summer Reading Challenge are invited to collect their medal at special award presentation events and those at Dinnington and Wickersley libraries will be attended by the Mayor and the Inspire Rotherham poet laureate. 

The presentations take place on Tuesday 21 September at 4pm in Dinnington library and on Thursday 30 September at 3.30pm in Wickersley library.  

Jo Hinchliffe, Rotherham Libraries Children's Champion said: "We are thrilled with the record numbers taking part in this year's Summer Reading Challenge and encourage children to complete their six books as soon as possible, so that they can collect their well deserved medal.

"The Challenge is getting more popular every year, it's a great way for families to get involved in libraries and experience the joy of reading. Children also get a great sense of achievement."