Summer Reading Challenge 2026
Saturday 4 July - Saturday 5 September
The theme for this year's Summer Reading Challenge is Read to the Beat – storytelling and music, celebrating the powerful connection between reading and music, it will inspire children to tap into a world of imagination through stories, discovering rhythm, sound, and creativity in every story.
The annual Summer Reading Challenge is delivered in partnership with public libraries across the UK, and it’s free for children to take part. Throughout the summer, children joining ‘Read to the Beat’ can discover new books, participate in free activities at their local library and explore the link between reading and music, rhythm and sound.
Volunteering opportunities
The Summer Reading Challenge is an annual event aimed at 4 – 11 year olds. Children are encouraged to read six (or more) books of their choice during the summer holidays. Merton Libraries are once again looking for volunteers to help keep children reading throughout the summer holidays for the Summer Reading Challenge.
Deadline to apply is Tuesday 30 June 2026.
For more information or to apply to volunteer with us this summer, head to the volunteering section.