Manchester Libraries participate in the national Summer Reading Challenge (developed by the Reading Agency) every year. Children join the Challenge to read six library books during the school holidays and are rewarded with a medal and certificate on completion. We offer a lively programme of activities, crafts and entertainment alongside the reading offer, and encourage young people to get involved through our volunteering programme.
This year our Space Chase results were out of this world! Highlights include:
44,000 library books read
8,940 children joined
6,148 children completed (reading at least 6 books)
17,663 children heard about the Challenge through 86 sessions involving schools
8,042 children and adults attended our free library activity programme
800 book review entries
‘Both of my boys love having stories at bedtime, the Space Chase has encouraged them to read during the day too, so they earn their stickers and complete the Challenge’. Lisa Walker, parent of children aged 4 and 5
‘Believe it or not I love writing stories and one of my FAVOURITE things to do is read and that is why I have entered the Summer Reading Challenge. I have just discovered some amazing books in the library’. Isla, age 9 from Didsbury Library
One lucky winner, Niamh from Newton Heath Library, scooped our big reading prize and there were book goody bags for winners at every library in recognition of their special effort in reading and ‘going the extra mile’. Twenty two of our winners even met children’s award-winning author, Jacqueline Wilson!
Read our full Space Chase Summer Reading Challenge 2019 Report here.