Space Hop: the 12th Summer Reading Challenge launches
We have lift off! Libraries across Torfaen are getting ready to launch children into orbit for an intergalactical adventure that will keep them reading throughout the school summer holidays with the 2010 Summer Reading Challenge.
And it's all free fun, which is out-of-this-world news for parents! The Summer Reading Challenge is just one of many exciting schemes public libraries are developing to help children love reading.
The Summer Reading Challenge is an immensely popular and successful reading initiative. Now in its twelfth year it involves up to 750,000 children aged four to 11 years via the UK library network. It is created and run by The Reading Agency, the independent charity working to inspire more people to read more, and is supported by children's publishers.
Each year the Summer Reading Challenge to children is simple. They're encouraged to read six or more books of their choice during the holidays with collectable goodies along the way, plus a certificate and medal for every child who completes the Challenge.
Successful Space Hoppers in Torfaen are also rewarded with a free DVD loan, and entry to a special prize draw! The first prize, donated by the Mayor of Torfaen, Cllr Tom Huish, is a new Apple iPod Nano.
Councillor Lewis Jones, deputy leader of Torfaen council, said: "The summer holidays are a fantastic time for readers of all ages to discover libraries, develop a love of reading and have a lot of fun along the way. I'm delighted that the Space Hoppers campaign is heading to Torfaen."
Children can sign up now at their local library -and all materials are absolutely free.
An interactive Space Hop (www.spacehop.org.uk) website has also just launched, linking children with top authors and illustrators, and giving them space to talk about their favourite books and to share reading ideas. Space Hop also promotes their local library as a place of wonder for children, where librarians can offer them invaluable advice and guidance to help them on their mission.
For more information please contact: Mark Tanner 01495 762820 mark.tanner@torfaen.gov.uk