Swindon’s young bookworms are being treated to a jam-packed summer of storytelling, creativity, and community fun, as this year’s Summer Reading Challenge unfolds across the town’s libraries and green spaces.
Running until 6 September, the programme offers free activities for families, with events ranging from Library Safaris and Outdoor Survival Kit Making to Paint Fest Family Fun Day, animation workshops, music, crafts, and games – all designed to spark imagination and nurture a love of reading.
The adventure began with a Teddy Bear’s Picnic at Central Library on Saturday 26 July, where children were treated to a live reading of We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, along with competitions, free snacks and books. Each child also received wildflower seeds to plant at home, tying beautifully into this year’s theme, Story Garden.
Further Teddy Bear’s Picnics are due to pop up at various community venues, including The Circle, Pinetrees, Penhill, Park South, Wharf Green, Broadgreen and Town Gardens – ensuring the magic of stories reaches every corner of Swindon.
Not just for younger readers, the challenge also offers a Book Bingo competition for those aged 12 and up, with a £30 voucher up for grabs. Meanwhile, children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are invited to a relaxed and inclusive storytelling session on Thursday 21 August at North Swindon Library, hosted in partnership with the National Literacy Trust.
Also adding a sprinkle of outdoor adventure are the National Literacy Trust Story Trails at Seven Fields. These self-led walks combine reading with nature, encouraging families to follow prompts and act out scenes along the trail.
Author and illustrator Steve Antony is also getting involved, launching a Deep Sea Doodles art competition. Young artists can submit their creations for a chance to win a signed book and attend a special prize event – with one winner chosen from each of Swindon’s 14 libraries.
Children who register for the challenge receive a free Challenge Pack from their local library, with little ones aged four and under also receiving two free books and a tote bag. As they read and take part in activities, participants earn rewards, including a certificate, medal, and an invitation to a celebration ceremony with the Mayor of Swindon.
Schools are also being encouraged to take part. As one of just six national winners, Swindon has bagged a special prize – a free school trip to a National Trust site.
Allie Brown, Development Manager at Swindon Libraries, said: “We’re excited about this year’s Challenge and want to reach children who may not usually read for pleasure. With 30,000 children’s books in our libraries, plus an excellent digital selection on the free BorrowBox app, there’s truly something for everyone.”
Cllr Jim Grant, Cabinet Member for Communities and Partnerships, added: “It’s brilliant that so many events are taking place in community venues, bringing the joy of reading right to people’s doorsteps. There are so many ways to take part – whether children read themselves, are read to, or join one of the fun sessions happening across the town.”
To find out more or register for the Summer Reading Challenge, visit the Swindon Libraries website or pop into your local branch.
