Summer Reading Challenge lifts off with special space theme

Councillor Janet Emsley (2nd r), cabinet member for libraries, at the launch of the 2019 Summer Reading Challenge

One of the most historic events of the 20th century will provide the inspiration for this year’s Summer Reading Challenge.

To mark the 50th anniversary of first landing on the moon, the theme Space Chase will challenge children to go on a special mission to read up to six books over the summer holidays and to add extra fun to this year’s programme, children will team up with futuristic family The Rockets to track down books stolen by a mischievous band of aliens.

As children read library books for the Summer Reading Challenge, they will receive special stickers to add to collectable folders, helping The Rockets solve clues, dodge asteroids and discover the missing books.

Space Chase launches in libraries across the borough on Saturday 13 July 2019 and runs until Saturday 7 September 2019.

To take part children simply need to sign up at their nearest local library, where they will be given a collectable folder to keep a record of their Summer Reading Challenge journey

The reading challenge is free and open to children aged 4 to 11. All youngsters completing the challenge will be presented with certificates and medals.

Nearly 1,000 children across the borough took part in last year’s Summer Reading Challenge, an annual initiative from national charity The Reading Agency, whose aim is to inspire everyone to read for pleasure. It is delivered locally by the council’s library service.

Councillor Janet Emsley said: “The Summer Reading Challenge is about improving literacy levels, encouraging learning and providing children with fun activities during the long summer holidays.

"I am sure the space theme will really take off and help provide new opportunities for young people to learn all about the moon landings. I can sense a real buzz about this year’s theme, so good luck to children across the borough in their mission to read up to six books borrowed from our superb library service.”

There’s a whole programme of events and activities planned at Rochdale Borough libraries for families over the summer to celebrate the Summer Reading Challenge.

Just contact your library to find out how to take part:

• www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/business/L/460/libraries