Read to the Beat – Summer Reading Challenge 2026
Leeds Libraries are asking us to help them spread the word about this summer’s Read to the Beat Summer Reading Challenge and encourage children and families in their wards to take part. The Challenge launched on 4 July and is already proving hugely popular. 4,518 children across Leeds have joined, putting us close to the total number who took part across the whole of last year’s Challenge. 446 children have already completed the Challenge by reading six books. There is still plenty of time for more children to get involved over the summer as the Challenge runs through to the 12th September.
What is the Summer Reading Challenge?
The Summer Reading Challenge is a free national programme for children aged 4–11, delivered in Leeds through Community Hubs and Libraries. This year’s theme is Read to the Beat, celebrating the connection between reading, music and creativity. Children can read whatever they enjoy – including stories, poetry, non-fiction, graphic novels and comics – and can also listen to audiobooks. They are encouraged to read at least six books over the summer and receive rewards along the way, with a certificate and medal when they complete the Challenge. The Challenge is completely free. Children can sign up using their library card, and if they do not already have one, they can join the library and get a card at the same time.
Why does it matter?
The summer holidays can be a crucial time for maintaining children’s reading habits and their enjoyment of books.
The Summer Reading Challenge:
- encourages children to keep reading for pleasure during the school holidays
- helps children discover new books, authors and different ways of reading
- supports families to access free cultural and creative activities
- helps children maintain their confidence and reading skills
- provides a positive reason for families to visit their local library
- connects children with their local library as a welcoming, safe and inclusive community space
- introduces children and families who may not currently use libraries to the wide range of free services available.
With national declines in reading for pleasure, encouraging children to read because they want to is more important than ever.
With 4,518 children already signed up, Leeds is on track for another hugely successful Summer Reading Challenge. We would love to see every ward playing a part in helping more children discover the enjoyment of reading this summer – and encouraging those who have already joined to complete the Challenge.
Find out more about Read to the Beat – including links to Summer Reading Challenge family flyers in multiple languages.