We’re excited to share that the Summer Reading Challenge 2026 is launching this July, with this year’s theme “Read to the Beat”, a fun, music-inspired challenge celebrating reading, rhythm, and creativity!

The Challenge will run in Essex libraries from Saturday 18 July to Saturday 5 September, giving children the opportunity to enjoy books over the summer, build confidence in their reading, and earn rewards along the way. 

The Summer Reading Challenge helps children:

·Maintain and improve their reading skills during the summer break. (The ‘Summer slide’ can cause children to lose up to 20% of their reading gains made during the previous school year (Gov.UK).)

·Discover new books and authors

·Build confidence and a love of reading

·Stay engaged and motivated through a fun, themed programme