Read to the Beat  is the theme for the 2026 Summer Reading Challenge. Created by The Reading Agency and delivered in partnership with public libraries, this year’s Challenge encourages children to explore the connection between storytelling and music.   

Featuring beautiful illustrations by artist Harry Woodgate, Read to the Beat offers young readers a world of stories, music and fun filled adventures. 

How the challenge works

• Children can join at any of our seven libraries from Saturday 4 July. 

• Borrow books and get reading. You can read any books! 

• Children will receive a special sticker for each of the 6 books read. 

• Children who complete the challenge will receive a medal, a certificate and be entered into a draw to win one of many fantastic prizes. 

• Children who signed up for the challenge on Super Sign Up Saturday (4 July) and complete the challenge will be entered into an additional prize draw to win another special prize.

• Children under 4 can also take part and get their own booklet and stickers. 

• Children can also take part online. Visit www.summerreadingchallenge.org for more information. For help and guidance on how to sign up to the online challenge visit https://summerreadingchallenge.org.uk/help