Sign up for Tameside’s summer reading challenge

Youngsters are being encouraged to sign up for this year’s Tameside Library’s summer reading challenge.

Everything is free and this year young people can set their own reading goal. To take part, all they have to do is sign up online at www.sillysquad.org.uk.

Once registered they’ll find lots of activities, such as games and videos, and rewards in the shape of online badges.

The new challenge is a celebration of funny books, laughter and joy that encourages children aged four to 11 to get silly and have fun by reading whatever makes them happy.

Tameside Libraries have plenty of free e-books and e-audio books to help children complete the challenge. They’re available on the Borrowbox app where they sign in with their library card and PIN. 

For non-library members it is free and easy to join online at www.tameside.gov.uk/libraries to take part and join the challenge.

Cllr Leanne Feeley, Tameside Council’s executive member with responsibility for libraries, said: “My love of reading is well known. 

“It’s something I am always keen to promote, especially among the young, as it broadens views and inspires creativity and imagination. 

“The summer reading challenge - which ties in with our Tameside Loves Reading campaign - has always proved very successful in the past and I’m sure this year’s digital event will be no different. 

“Our libraries have lots of exciting titles for young people to enjoy and learn from, and these can be easily accessed online using the BorrowBox app.

“I would like to thank all Tameside Libraries’ staff for their hard work in organising projects like this to engage with our residents. It really does make a difference.”

The summer reading challenge is designed to prevent the dip in children’s reading which can occur over the summer holidays. 

Its popularity has regularly increased since it first took place in 1999 and there is a new theme every year. Last year around 3,000 children took part across Tameside.

More information about the Reading Agency and the summer reading challenge can be found at www.readingagency.org.uk/summerreadingchallenge.