Three young readers have been rewarded for their efforts after taking part in this year’s Summer Reading Challenge.
More than 900 children, aged four to 11, signed up to read or listen to six or more library books over the summer, collecting rewards like stickers, magazines and book bags along the way.
Hallie, a Year 1 pupil at Croesyceiliog Primary School, is this year’s winner, receiving a £100 gift voucher after her name was drawn at random from everyone who completed the challenge.
This year’s theme, Read to the Beat, celebrated creativity and self-expression through books inspired by music, dance and storytelling.
Year 2 pupil Arabella, from Cwmffrwdoer Primary School, and Isaac, a Year 1 pupil at Griffithstown Primary School, also won cinema tickets after being randomly selected from children who signed up for the challenge.
This years challenge may be over, but there is plenty more happening at Torfaen’s Community Hubs and Libraries.
During October half term, libraries in Blaenavon, Cwmbran and Pontypool will provide a series of story and craft sessions, and will play host to Experimental Science who are running Spooktacular Science sessions.
Residents can also drop in throughout the year to access tech support and a growing programme of community events, as well as ordering a hot drink from the newly launched coffee cart.
And it’s not just books available to borrow, with items including sports equipment and ukuleles also on offer.
Councillor Richard Clark, Executive Member for Children, Families and Education, said, “Congratulations to Hallie, Arabella and Isaac, and to everyone who took part in this year’s challenge. It’s fantastic to see so many young people discovering and enjoying books.
“Reading helps build confidence, creativity and a lifelong love of learning, and our libraries are a great place to continue that journey. With so much more on offer than books, I’d encourage everyone to pay their local library a visit.”
Not a library member yet? It’s free to join and you can register at your local library.
For more information about activities and services, visit your local library, follow Torfaen Libraries on Facebook or call 01633 647676.