How the challenge works 

• Children can join at any of our seven libraries from Saturday 5 July. Please note: Morden Library will be temporarily closed from Monday 16 June to Monday 4 August. During this time, children can register for the challenge at any of our other libraries. Once Morden Library reopens, they can continue the challenge there. 

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

• Children will get stickers as they progress with their reading 

• 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 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 

 Prizes 

A big thank you to all our generous sponsors for donating prizes to this year’s Summer Reading Challenge prize draw – their support is greatly appreciated.

Events and activities

There are lots of events and activities taking place at our libraries. Have a look on our events platform.

Volunteers needed! 

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.  

Who can apply?  

Anyone aged 14+   

What experience do you need?  

You do not need to have previous experience of volunteering or working in a library but we’re looking for volunteers who are:   

• Reliable  

• Enthusiastic and friendly   

• Comfortable communicating with children and their families  

• Good at listening and be able to encourage and engage the children taking part in The Summer Reading Challenge  

What you’ll be doing  

• Explain to families and children how to take part in the challenge.    

• Sign children up to the Summer Reading Challenge.  

• Talk to children about books they have chosen and what they like to read, encouraging them to share their views and complete the challenge.    

• Hand out stickers and incentives when the books have been read and medals and certificates when the challenge has been completed.   

• Answer customer queries regarding the challenge (how long does it run for, age group, general rules, etc.)  

Time commitment 

This role can be carried out at a flexible time to suit your availability during library opening hours but volunteers should be able to commit to two hours per week or a total of 16hrs throughout the duration of the Summer Reading Challenge.  

What will you get out of volunteering?  

• Enhance the 'experience' section of your CV   

• The opportunity to make a positive contribution to the community   

• Boost your communication skills and confidence  

• Support the development of children  

• Meet new people and work as a team