This summer children aged 4-11 can visit Southend Libraries to join the 'Marvellous Makers' Summer Reading Challenge, firing up their imaginations through the power of reading and creative expression.
In partnership with Create, a leading arts charity, and public libraries, this year's Challenge celebrates kids' creativity and storytelling abilities. Children will be encouraged to explore new books and stories while taking part in free activities, from arts and crafts to music, dance, and more.
The bespoke Challenge artwork is illustrated by celebrated artist Natelle Quek, bringing the 'Marvellous Makers' theme vibrantly to life. By reading books and collecting incentives at your library, young readers can foster their creative thinking skills over the summer break.
Summer Reading Challenge events
Robot storytelling and crafts and signed books for sale
- When: 22 July 2024, 2pm to 3.30pm
- Where: Forum Library
Art of Scribbling workshop with illustrator Michael Young
An event for children aged 6 to 11 years
- When: 6 August 2024, 11am to 12pm
- Where: Leigh Library
Author event with Isabel Bee
Family entertainment for children over 5 years
- When: 16 August 2024, 2.30pm to 4pm
- Where: Forum Library
Choose Your Own Adventure Story Coding Workshop
Suitable for ages 8 to 14 years
- When: Tuesdays 6, 13, 20 August and Fridays 9, 16, 23 August 10.15am to 11.45am
- Where: Forum Library
Attend all 6 sessions to learn different skills in developing your story into a fun and exciting adventure! Book your place for £15 (covers all 6 sessions).
No previous coding experience necessary and all equipment will be provided.
Tickets
Tickets for our full schedule of events will be available on our libraries eventbrite page.
Look out for other drop-in activities at your local library.
The Summer Reading Challenge aims to prevent the "summer dip" learning loss many children experience over the holidays when they aren't in school. With libraries' support, it provides a free, fun way to keep young minds active. In 2023, over 685,000 children across the UK participated.
Karen Napier, CEO of The Reading Agency, said: "The Summer Reading Challenge sparks children's creativity and imagination through reading. Developed with Create, this year's 'Marvellous Makers' theme will inspire kids' inner storytellers and makers. We're thrilled to work with libraries to provide an engaging environment for exploring new ideas through books and activities."