North Tyneside libraries are inviting children and families to take part in the 2026 Summer Reading Challenge, a free initiative designed to keep children reading throughout the summer holidays.
The annual challenge returns this year with a new theme – Read to the Beat! – celebrating the connection between music and storytelling and encouraging children to discover new books, explore their local library and enjoy reading for pleasure.
The challenge launches on Saturday 11 July, when families can visit any North Tyneside Community Hub and Library to sign up for free, choose their first books and take part in themed activities.
Councillor Hannah Johnson, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, said: "The Summer Reading Challenge is a brilliant way to keep children reading over the summer while having fun at the same time. Read to the Beat! is a fantastic theme that brings together music, imagination and storytelling, and we're looking forward to welcoming families into our libraries to get involved."
The Summer Reading Challenge is delivered by The Reading Agency in partnership with public libraries and funded by Arts Council England.
Now in its 27th year, the Summer Reading Challenge is one of the UK's biggest annual reading programmes. Last year, more than 11 million books were borrowed from libraries during the challenge, including audiobooks and eBooks.