Libraries are hoping to strike the right chord with pupils when a music-themed reading challenge launches over the school summer holidays.
From Saturday, 4 July, North Yorkshire libraries will be encouraging children aged between four and 11 to read six library books over the summer holidays, winning stickers and prizes as they progress.
This year’s theme is Read to the Beat, inspiring children to explore the connection between stories and songs, discovering how reading and music ignite creativity.
The book collection features musicians, characters discovering music, cultural traditions, rhythm and creative expression.
The aim is to make stories come to life, increasing a child’s ability to understand emotions and improve their language skills.
We are supporting the National Year of Reading, which looks to combat the decline of reading for pleasure and inspire people of all ages to read more.
Executive member for arts and culture, Cllr Simon Myers, whose responsibilities include libraries, said: “By combining music with reading, there’s no better way to spark a child’s imagination and creative flair.
“The annual reading challenge is fun and accessible for families taking part and encourages more people to make use of their local library.
“It’s important to keep young people reading during the summer break, as it’s a time when learning can dip and take a back seat.
“Our library staff and young volunteers helping to run the challenge are on hand to support families taking part to read six books and collect prizes as they do so.”
The headteacher of Christ Church CE Primary School in Skipton, Diane Cooper, said: “The children are excited to again take part in the Summer Reading Challenge.
“Maintaining reading habits over the summer is one of the most effective ways to ensure children return to school confident and ready to continue learning.
“Learning doesn't stop during the holidays. and our local libraries offer incredible free resources and opportunities for every family.
“We will be encouraging all our children to take part in the challenge, discovering new worlds and more.”
Hundreds of often free activities will be taking place in libraries with musical partners where children can try making music for themselves, including rap workshops, drumming and singing.
See full details of the events here or visit the individual library Facebook pages.
There is still time for volunteers aged between 13 and 24 to come forward to help run and promote the challenge.
Volunteers will register children onto the challenge, help them to choose books, talk to them about the books they have read, award prizes, and assist with library activities.
To find out more about volunteering and to apply, go to or contact your local library. See more information on the Read to the Beat challenge.
Our library service is running the Summer Reading Challenge, organised by the Reading Agency in partnership with Universal Music Group UK.