7:00am Monday 6th July 2009
BLOSSOMING bookworms in the borough are being encouraged to leaf through their favourite stories as part of a summer reading challenge.
Harrow Council is launching the event on Saturday which is aimed at taking young readers into “a mysterious and wondrous land where they can discover the joy of reading“ according to organisers.
The challenge, called Quest Seekers, is hoped will get children aged four to 12 into libraries by setting them the task of reading six books during the summer holidays.
A website will also link children with top authors and illustrators, and giving them space to talk about their favourite books and take part in online Quest Seeker games and activities.
The council also believes it will promote libraries as “a place of wonder, where librarians can offer children invaluable advice and guidance to help them through their quest“, which consits of three tasks.
Councillor Chris Mote, portfolio holder for community and cultural services, said last year's challenge was a great success. He added: “We are keen to see children in Harrow advancing their reading skills both in and out of school and it is important to make sure they keep reading over the summer holidays.”
The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) national library service are also supporting the challenge by providing special materials for visually impaired children.
They are being encouraged to read six or more books of their choice during the holidays with collectable incentives and rewards, plus a certificate and medal for every child who completes the challenge.
Children can sign up at their nearest library from 11th July and all materials are free. The challenge runs until September 12.
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