Children across North Tyneside are being encouraged to step into a world of nature, stories, and imagination this summer as the borough’s libraries launch the 2025 Summer Reading Challenge.
Delivered by North Tyneside Council’s Library Services in partnership with national charity The Reading Agency, the free initiative is open to children aged 4–11 and aims to spark a lifelong love of reading – all while keeping young minds active over the holidays.
This year’s theme, Story Garden: Adventures in Nature and the Great Outdoors, invites children to explore the connection between storytelling and the natural world. With stunning illustrations by award-winning artist Dapo Adeola, the Challenge will bring to life a magical garden full of books, creatures, and outdoor adventures.
Children can sign up at any North Tyneside library from Saturday 12 July, where they’ll receive a free sticker book and can start their reading journey. There’ll also be themed events and craft sessions running throughout the summer to inspire creativity and curiosity.
Library visits with local schools are already under way to help introduce pupils to the challenge and encourage them to get involved early.
Now in its 26th year, the Summer Reading Challenge is the UK’s biggest annual reading initiative for children and is proven to help prevent the summer reading dip experienced during school holidays.
Last year, it reached nearly 600,000 children and helped spark more than 100,000 new library memberships.
Councillor Hannah Johnson, Cabinet Member for Libraries, said: “The Summer Reading Challenge is always a highlight of the year for our libraries. It’s a brilliant way to keep children reading for pleasure, and this year’s nature-themed adventure is set to really capture their imaginations. We’re proud to be part of it once again."
Karen Napier, CEO of The Reading Agency said: “The Summer Reading Challenge continues to be a bright light in what has recently been an uncertain picture of children's reading. Story Garden will create magical spaces where children can explore and be curious, combining the joy of reading with the proven wellbeing benefits of connecting with nature. Libraries will be hosting inspiring events and activities where nature and wildlife will take children on adventures and plants inspire their next story. We're particularly excited to be working with Dapo Adeola, whose wonderful illustrations will help bring these adventures to life."
Now in its 26th year, the Summer Reading Challenge is delivered in partnership with public libraries and is completely free to join. It aims to inspire a passion for reading outside the classroom many children experience during the holidays. In 2024, the Challenge reached nearly 600,000 children and helped spark over 100,000 new library memberships.
To take part in the Summer Reading Challenge or find your nearest participating library, visit summerreadingchallenge.org.uk, go to the libraries section of the council's website, or follow North Tyneside Community Hubs and Libraries on social media.