Summer Reading Challenge has begun
Get ready for a summer of imagination and creativity at your local Hertfordshire Library!
The Marvellous Makers Summer Reading Challenge is here to spark the joy of reading and creative arts, while addressing the dip in reading levels that can often occur during the summer holidays.
In collaboration with The Reading Agency and Create, a leading arts charity, we’re celebrating creativity and storytelling for our young readers. This year’s Challenge is an open invitation for children to explore books and stories, while taking part in free activities. From poetry and music to arts and crafts, there’s something for every young creator.
The Challenge begins at all Hertfordshire Libraries from Saturday 6 July, and continues until Saturday 7 September. Children are encouraged to read six library books and collect exclusive stickers along the way. And that’s not all—finishers of the Challenge will receive a medal and certificate, and a chance to win tickets to an interactive poetry workshop with the celebrated poet, Joshua Seigal.
Keep an eye out for pop-up Maker Stations at select libraries during the summer holidays, offering simple, engaging, and free activities designed to unleash the creative spirit in every child.
Curious to learn more? Visit www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/SummerReadingChallenge for all the details on the Challenge and discover some marvellous makes to create at home.
Hertfordshire Bookstart Annual Report, April 2023- March 2024
The Hertfordshire Bookstart Annual Report is both a celebration of what has been achieved over the last year and a thank you to all our partners across Hertfordshire who encourage families with babies and young children to share books and enjoy libraries.
The Early Years Librarians work in close partnership with health visitors, family centres, nursery settings and library colleagues to ensure thousands of free BookTrust resources reach families along with key messages around the positive impact of book-sharing and library membership for young children.
This year’s highlights include:
- The ‘My First’ promotion winning both an ‘Inspiring Libraries’ award and Resources award for Most Innovative Project – encouraging families with young children to engage with Hertfordshire Libraries
- Hearing from a new Mum how coming to Baby Rhyme Time, collecting the My First certificates and chatting to library staff has been a positive experience which has encouraged her to come to the sessions regularly and borrow books to share with her daughter
- Our engagement with the Ohana group of care experienced parents to gift the Bookstart resources
- Welcoming 120 Reception children to Hatfield and Welwyn Garden City Libraries to enjoy an inspiring visit from author/illustrator Alex Willmore as part of the My Fist Library Adventure promotion
We hope you enjoy reading the full report showcasing the valuable partnership working that has taken place to create lasting positive impacts for Hertfordshire’s babies and young children