Summer Reading Challenge 2026

 

The Summer Reading Challenge is returning to Havering Libraries, and as always - it's free! 

This year's exciting theme, "Read to the Beat," celebrates the powerful connection between reading and music.  The challenge is designed to inspire children aged 4-11 to explore a world of stories, creativity, and rhythm through books, sparking imagination and building a lifelong love of reading.

 

 

How to Take Part

 

1.  Register

 

From Saturday 4 July, you can register your child for the challenge by visiting any Havering library.

  • Bring your child's library card and speak to a member of staff
  • If your child is not yet a member, complete the online registration form
  • You'll receive a temporary library card number - bring this along with proof of parental name and address, and we'll issue a full library card.

 

 

2.  Get Started

 

Once registered, your child will receive:

  • A Read to the Beat Collector Booklet
  • A Storytime Magazine

These will guide them through the challenge and track their progress.

 

 

3.  Complete the Challenge

 

This year, children can choose how they take part:

  • Read 6 books, as in previous years

         or

  • Complete a series of reading-based challenges

Full details of the challenges are provided in the Collector Booklet, allowing children to make the experience their own.

 

 

4.  Collect Rewards Along the Way

 

From Monday 20th July, they can return to the library to share what they've read or completed:

  • After 2 books or 2 challenges

         →  Receive stickers and collector cards

  • After 4 books or 4 challenges

         →  Receive the next set of stickers and collector cards

  • After completing the challenge (6 books or 6 challenges)

        →  Receive:

           ◦ Final stickers and collector cards

           ◦ A certificate

           ◦ A medal

           ◦ Entry into a prize draw

Pre-school children will receive a gold sticker instead of a medal.

 

 

5.  Deadline

 

To complete the challenge, please visit your library before 12 September.

 

 

Join the Fun!

 

The Summer Reading Challenge is a fantastic way to keep children engaged over the summer holidays - building confidence, creativity, and a love of reading.  Visit your local Havering library and take part in Read to the Beat this summer!