Summer Reading Challenge 2015: inspiring children to read and set a Guinness World Records title this summer

Libraries across Shropshire are getting ready to encourage young readers to explore some of the astonishing real-life achievements and world records as featured in the Guinness World Records Books as part of the Summer Reading Challenge 2015.

Organised by The Reading Agency charity, the annual Summer Reading Challenge, aimed at 4- to 11-year-olds and their families, is simple and fun. Children are encouraged to read six or more library books of their choice during the summer holidays, with collectable incentives and rewards, plus a certificate and medal for every child who completes the challenge. Children can sign up at their local library from Saturday 11 July 2015 and it’s absolutely free.

Collecting stickers as they go, young readers will discover the weird, wonderful and wacky records from around the world in six different categories: Cool Tech, Way to Go!, The Big Stuff, Animal Magic, People Power and Action! Adventure!

Libraries will be holding record-breaking events throughout the holidays to encourage children to continue reading throughout the summer holidays.

As part of this year’s challenge, children, parents, carers, young volunteers, teachers, much-loved children’s authors and important figures in communities around the UK will be asked to make a pledge to help us set a new Guinness World Records™ title for the Most Pledges Received for a Reading Campaign. Libraries in Shrewsbury, Harlescott, Church Stretton, Ludlow, Bridgnorth, Market Drayton, Whitchurch and Oswestry are collecting pledges between 10am and 12 noon on Saturday 11 July 2015 so come along and take part in a World Record attempt.

Steve Charmley, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member responsible for libraries, said:

“Parents and carers love the challenge; not only is it free but they can see the difference the Summer Reading Challenge makes to their children’s reading.”

For more information on the Summer Reading Challenge please visit www.readingagency.org.uk/summerreadingchallenge.