Summer Reading Challenge 2026

 

Saturday 4 July - Saturday 5 September

 

 

 

 

The Summer Reading Challenge is an annual event aimed at 4 – 11 year olds. Children are encouraged to read six (or more) books of their choice during the summer holidays.  

 

Read to the Beat  is the theme for the 2026 Summer Reading Challenge. Created by The Reading Agency and delivered in partnership with public libraries, this year’s Challenge encourages children to explore the connection between storytelling and music.   

 

Featuring beautiful illustrations by artist Harry Woodgate, Read to the Beat offers young readers a world of stories, music and fun filled adventures. 

  

 

How the challenge works

  • Children can join at any of our seven libraries from Saturday 4 July. 

  • Borrow books and get reading. You can read any books! 

  • Children will receive a special sticker for each of the 6 books read. 

  • Children who complete the challenge will receive a medal, a certificate and be entered into a draw to win one of many fantastic prizes. 

  • Children who signed up for the challenge on Super Sign Up Saturday (4 July) and complete the challenge will be entered into an additional prize draw to win another special prize.

  • Children under 4 can also take part and get their own booklet and stickers. 

 

 

Prizes

 

All children who read all 6 books for the Summer Reading Challenge will be entered into a prize draw to win the following prizes:

 

  • Nintendo Switch
  • Go Ape tickets
  • Crayola art set
  • Scooter
  • Karaoke Machine
  • AFC Wimbledon Bundle
  • Birthday party at Canons
  • Family tickets to Merton Fireworks
  • Family tickets to Polka Theatre
  • Gift vouchers
  • Christmas at Kew family ticket
  • Board game bundles
  • Bocketts Farm tickets
  • Animal Encounter at Deen City Farm
  • LEGO Bundles
  • Family tickets to Lantern Arts Centre

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Summer Reading Challenge Events

 

As part of the Summer Reading Challenge, our libraries will be hosting a range of fun, free activities and events throughout the summer to help keep children engaged with reading.

 

From craft sessions and themed activities to special workshops and family-friendly events, there's something for everyone to enjoy while taking part in the Challenge.

 

We will be continuing to add events to our schedule. Take a look at the events programme so far! 📚☀️✨

 

 

 

Volunteering opportunities

 

The Summer Reading Challenge is an annual event aimed at 4 – 11 year olds. Children are encouraged to read six (or more) books of their choice during the summer holidays. Merton Libraries are once again looking for volunteers to help keep children reading throughout the summer holidays for the Summer Reading Challenge. 

 

Deadline to apply has been extended until Tuesday 14 July 2026.

 

For more information or to apply to volunteer with us this summer, head to the volunteering section.