Almost 5000 children from South Gloucestershire took part in the 2026 Summer Reading Challenge at local libraries, reading more than 105,000 books during the school summer holidays.
This year’s challenge was titled ‘Read to the Beat’ and aimed to inspire children to explore the connection between stories and songs, discovering how both reading and music can ignite imagination and creativity.
Primary school children chose books to read and collected stickers to complete their sticker booklet to earn a medal, certificate and a voucher for a free swim at their local Active Lifestyle Centre, provided by Circadian Trust. A mini challenge was also available for pre-school children to help prepare them for starting school.
Throughout the summer, children also enjoyed free activities at libraries, including creative arts and crafts, Lego challenges, music and cultural experiences, and inclusive sessions for children and families with additional needs.
Chair of South Gloucestershire Council, Councillor Adrian Rush, and cabinet member Councillor John Bradbury attended an event at Hanham Library to celebrate the achievements of everyone who took part this year. They met children and presented them with medals and certificates to mark their success.
Councillor Adrian Rush, said: ““It has been wonderful to meet some of the children and their families and hear about how much the Summer Reading Challenge means to them. Thank you to our Library Service.”