About our programmes
Winter Mini Challenge
Keep the magic of reading going with this free reading challenge! It's an amazing confidence booster. Why not challenge your friends and family to complete it over the holidays?
Taking part is simple: Read three or more books between 1 December - 20 February and add them to your profile (remember to choose your avatar!).
Reaching your reading goal will unlock a limited-edition online badge and certificate of achievement to print off and treasure! Plus, once you complete the Winter Mini Challenge you will be entered into a PRIZE DRAW to win amazing books!
Summer Reading Challenge
The Summer Reading Challenge is a FREE holiday activity for children.
It's all about reading for fun, aiming to improve children's reading skills and confidence. The Challenge runs every year throughout the summer holidays, and all children aged 4-11 are welcome to take part.
Children can read anything they like (really - anything!) and collect free rewards for their reading.
The 2025 theme and how to take part
The 2025 Challenge theme, Story Garden, is an enchanting take on nature and the great outdoors. Through reading, children will uncover magical creatures, vibrant plants, and enchanting landscapes brought to life by award-winning illustrator Dapo Adeola. Libraries transformed into immersive gardens of adventure where children’s imaginations flourished, supported by free activities and resources.
Children can take part for FREE, either at the library OR online:
- In the summer months (July-September) you can sign up at your local library and take part in person. A librarian will give you a special collector folder and help you find books to read. You'll collect special stickers and rewards for your reading.
OR - You can take part online by signing up here, on the official Challenge website. You'll set up a profile with a reading goal and log your books. When you reach your goal, you will unlock a virtual badge and certificate.
Please note, the in-person and online Challenges are separate. Physical incentives like medals are only available via the library, for those taking part in the in-person Challenge.
More information
The Summer Reading Challenge is developed by The Reading Agency, delivered in partnership with public libraries, and funded by Arts Council England. Each year, the Challenge motivates around 700,000 children to keep reading over the summer holidays.
The bespoke illustrations for Story Garden were created by Dapo Adeola.
You can keep up to date with all of The Reading Agency's latest children's activities and offers by following us on Facebook.
If your child enjoyed taking part in a Challenge and you can help us share the experience with even more children, please consider donating to The Reading Agency by clicking here.
If you would like to make a larger gift, legacy pledge or can support our fundraising in any way, please email [email protected]. The Reading Agency receives 100% of your donation. Obtain bill payer’s permission. Customer care 08448479800. Charity No 1085443.
