Children’s reading can “dip” during the summer holidays. The Reading Agency’s annual Summer Reading Challenge helps by getting over 700,000 children regularly into libraries over the summer. In Milton Keynes we had over 3,000 children join the challenge in 2023 to maintain their reading skills and confidence during the summer break. 

    Because everything changes when we read.

    We want as many children as possible to read or have help reading six library books over the summer holidays each year to complete the challenge.

    Last summer we were excited to introduce Ready Set Read, Summer Reading Challenge 2023, a celebration of play and participation and innovation, encouraging children to engage in games and sports in any way that best suits them. The challenge was developed in collaboration with the Youth Sport Trust and in partnership with Nike and Rebel Girls. The 2023 challenge was designed to showcase how reading can be active and engaging, and can itself involve teamwork and community. Along the way there were stickers and treats to collect and when the challenge was completed, the children received a certificate, a medal and a free limited edition book 'Rebel Girls Kick It: World Champions Take the Pitch, and You Can Too'.

    The Summer Reading Challenge is FREE to join and simple to sign up for at any of the Milton Keynes Libraries during staffed hours. The challenge begins in July each year and ends in early September.

    With thousands of great books waiting to be read at the local library there is no excuse for boredom during the long summer break.

    Milton Keynes City Council Libraries contact information

    Milton Keynes Central Library, 555 Silbury Boulevard, Milton Keynes MK9 3HL