This summer, The Reading Agency invites children to discover the joy of reading through Read to the Beat! - the music-themed Summer Reading Challenge 2026. With a fantastic collection of books inspired by music from around the world, children can explore stories, poetry, graphic novels, and non -fiction for all reading levels. Best of all, books are FREE to borrow from the library.
The Summer Reading Challenge is all about reading for fun, aiming to improve children's reading skills and confidence. It runs every year throughout the summer holidays, and all children aged 4-11 are welcome to take part.
Children can read anything they like and collect free rewards for their reading, including an exclusive Read to the Beat magazine, a book mark, collector's cards and wooden medal. We will announce our full summer programme of activities and events for children on 11 July. Children will also be able to enjoy a variety of self-serve activities, including the much-loved Summer Reading Challenge character hunt.
As part of the National Year of Reading, we are encouraging families to make reading part of their summer adventures. Children can sign up at the library, set their reading goals, and enjoy rewards along the way.
Sign up at any Leeds public library or visit summerreadingchallenge.org.uk to begin your adventure!