Grow your imagination with the Summer Reading Challenge
Children in Oxfordshire are being encouraged to step in to the magical world of the 2025 Summer Reading Challenge, Story Garden.
Available for free in public libraries and online, the challenge helps children stay engaged with reading during the summer holidays. Participants can discover new books, earn rewards and enjoy nature inspired events and activities
From 5 July to 6 September children across Oxfordshire will be able to collect stickers and those who finish the challenge at an Oxfordshire County Council library will get a medal and certificate, and entry into a prize draw. Under 4s can take part in a mini challenge with their own special collector’s folder and stickers.
Councillor Neil Fawcett, Deputy leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “The 2025 Summer Reading Challenge is a celebration of adventure, fantasy and the great outdoors. We hope to inspire children throughout Oxfordshire to tap into a world of imagination through reading and exploring the magical connection between storytelling and nature.
“National statistics show that only one in three children report enjoying reading, so this annual event is more important than ever before. The summer holidays are an exciting time for children but also a time when they are less exposed to books as a result of not being in the classroom. We welcome and encourage children across the county to visit the library and enjoy some great books over the summer.”
The Summer Reading Challenge has been running nationally since 1999. In 2024, nearly 600,000 children and families across the UK engaged with the event.
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 .
Click Sign up to hear from us and receive the latest news and updates in our fortnightly newsletter, Your Oxfordshire.