Get into the rhythm of reading this summer
Children in Oxfordshire are being invited to turn up the volume on reading this summer by taking part in the Summer Reading Challenge 2026: Read to the Beat!
Free to join at Oxfordshire County Council’s libraries, this year’s challenge celebrates the joy of reading over the summer holidays with a music-inspired theme.
From 4 July to 5 September, children taking part can collect stickers along the way. Those who complete the challenge will receive a medal, a certificate and entry into a prize draw. Children under four can also join in with a mini challenge, with their own collector’s folder and stickers.
Councillor Neil Fawcett, Deputy leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “We hope this year’s theme inspires children across Oxfordshire to discover the joy of reading in a fun and creative way, with music helping bring the challenge to life.
“National statistics show that just one in three children regularly enjoy reading, so initiatives like the Summer Reading Challenge are more important than ever.
“The summer holidays are an exciting time for children, but they can also mean less time spent reading outside school. This challenge is a great way to bring families into the library, help children discover new books and keep reading over the break.”
The Summer Reading Challenge has been running nationally since 1999. In 2026, The Reading Agency has partnered with Universal Music Group UK to bring the theme, Read to the Beat! to life.
To find out more about the Summer Reading Challenge visit www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/summer-reading-challenge .
Oxfordshire County Council’s libraries host activities throughout the county for people of all ages. Find out what’s on by going to www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/libraries.
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