Planting the seeds for young readers

The challenge, produced by The Reading Agency and delivered in partnership with our libraries, takes place between 5 July and 13 September and aims to inspire young people to read for fun during the summer holidays.  

The 'story garden' theme has inspired a reading list which includes authors, such as renowned naturalists, Chris Packham and Hamza Yassin, as well as books all about mini beasts, wildlife, forests and even dragons. 

Registering is free and easy, simply visit your local library. To complete the challenge, children will need to borrow books at least four times.  

With each library visit, challengers can claim rewards, including a sticker book to record their progress, with four stickers to collect, and on their fourth visit they will be rewarded with a sticker and a medal. If they complete the challenge by 13 September, they will be eligible for entry into a prize draw. The Mayor of Hillingdon, Cllr Philip Corthorne, will present the prizes at a special ceremony on 30 September. 

Libraries in Hillingdon will also be hosting special story garden themed events, including a performance by poet and entertainer, Justin Coe on Tuesday 29 July at Botwell Green Library, and an interactive dance performance of SEED by Made by Katie Green on 5 August at Ruislip Manor and Botwell Green libraries. There will also be a series of forest school sessions in children's centres. Places are limited, so book early.  

The Imagination Station is back on 14 August, 10am to 3pm, at the Great Barn, Ruislip with a free family fun day packed with activities, including an opportunity to meet Mary Anning the Fossil Hunter and Crawley Kreeper, creative crafts with Ruislip Artists, fitness challenges in association with Better Leisure, storytime with the council's libraries team and games, advice and support from its waste and recycling team. 

The council is also recruiting young volunteers aged 14 to 17 to inspire and support children by discussing the nature and being outdoors themes, suggesting books, and encouraging them to complete the challenge. They will also assist with activities and contribute to the wider programme of summer activities. 

Full training will be provided before the challenge begins, and hours will be recorded to help evidence volunteer hours towards the Duke of Edinburgh's Award or similar achievements.  

Cllr Eddie Lavery, Hillingdon Council's Cabinet Member for Community and Environment, said: "In previous years, thousands of children in Hillingdon have taken part in this reading challenge and I'm eager to see as many youngsters as possible enjoying our local libraries again this summer. It's also a perfect opportunity to explore the new dedicated children's area in Uxbridge Library. 

"The challenge is a great way for children to keep up their reading skills during the holidays. All library books count - so they can enjoy picture books, storybooks, joke books, poetry books, books full of facts and audiobooks."   

To find out more about the Summer Reading Challenge and to apply to be a volunteer, visit discover.hillingdon.gov.uk/summer-reading.