
Rotherham Libraries and Neighbourhood Hubs are to participate in the ‘Marvellous Makers’ Summer Reading Challenge with free family-friendly activities from Saturday 6 July.
This summer, children aged from four to 11, can visit any Rotherham Library and Neighbourhood Hub to join the ‘Marvellous Makers’ Summer Reading Challenge to use their imaginations through the power of reading and creative expression.
Working in partnership with public libraries and leading arts charity, Create, this year’s challenge celebrates children’s creativity and storytelling abilities. Children will be encouraged to explore new books while taking part in free activities from arts and crafts, music, dance, and more.
By reading books and collecting incentives at any Rotherham Library and Neighbourhood Hub, young readers can foster their creative thinking skills over the summer break.
To take part children simply need to visit a library to sign up for free and receive their ‘Marvellous Makers’ Pack. Participants can then:
• Set a personal reading goal for the summer
• Borrow and read books, eBooks and audiobooks of their choice
• Collect special incentives from the library each time they finish a book
• Receive a certificate for reaching their Challenge goal
Alternatively, children can take part in the challenge online by visiting -summerreadingchallenge.org.uk
To celebrate those who complete the Summer Reading Challenge, a celebration ceremony will take place on Sunday 20 October at Magna Science and Adventure Centre.
Those completing the challenge will get free admission to explore the wonders of Science and Technology in four pavilions – Air, Earth, Fire & Water! With over 100 interactive exhibits facilitating learning through investigation and play.
Rotherham Council’s Assistant Director for Culture, Sport and Tourism, Polly Hamilton, said: “I always look forward to The Summer Reading Challenge. Reading is one of my favourite things to do, and I believe it is so important that we continue to encourage children to read more. It is great to see so many children enjoying taking part in the challenge each year and I hope more children are able to get involved this year.”
The bespoke Challenge artwork is illustrated by celebrated artist Natelle Quek, bringing the ‘Marvellous Makers’ theme vibrantly to life.
The Summer Reading Challenge aims to prevent the "summer dip" learning loss many children experience over the holidays when they aren't in school. With libraries' support, it provides a free, fun way to keep young minds active. In 2023, over 685,000 children across the UK participated.
Karen Napier, CEO of The Reading Agency, said: "The Summer Reading Challenge sparks children's creativity and imagination through reading. Developed with Create, this year's 'Marvellous Makers' theme will inspire kids' inner storytellers and makers. We're thrilled to work with libraries to provide an engaging environment for exploring new ideas through books and activities."