Books and beats
Read to the Beat illustrations by Harry Woodgate, illustrations and logo © The Reading Agency 2026
Help your child fall in love with reading this summer.
The Reading Agency’s Summer Reading Challenge is back! ‘Read to the Beat’ is a FREE, fun-packed way to keep kids reading and learning all summer long.
Celebrating the joy of music by inspiring children to explore stories through song, they will discover how reading and music can ignite their imagination and creativity.
It’s so easy to take part! Children aged 4-11 simply need to register at their local library or participating Community Hub* and read six or more books of their choice.
There are rewards to collect along the way and even a certificate and medal to win when they complete the challenge. Younger siblings can also join in through a special Mini Challenge.
Taking part brings huge benefits with 95% of children saying they read more after completing the challenge. Research shows that reading by choice is the single biggest indicator of a child’s future success - boosting their wellbeing, self-confidence and learning, as well as future earnings and employment opportunities.
2026 is The National Year of Reading, the biggest campaign in a generation designed to help more people (re)discover the joy of reading and make it a part of their everyday lives. So go all in, support the Summer Reading Challenge and encourage your child to join the reading fun at their local library.
The Summer Reading Challenge launched on 4 July and runs in the following core libraries until 5 September: Boston, Bourne, Gainsborough, Grantham, Horncastle, Lincoln Central, Long Sutton, Louth, Mablethorpe, Market Rasen, Skegness, Sleaford, Spalding, Stamford and Woodhall Spa.
Children can also join in at the following Community Hubs:
- Alford
- Bracebridge Heath
- Branston
- Burgh le Marsh
- Cherry Willingham
- Crowland
- Deepings
- Donington
- Holbeach
- North Hykeham
- Pinchbeck
- Ruskington
- Scotter
- Spilsby
- Swineshead
- Waddington
- Welton
Why join in?
It’s free at local libraries and:
- It helps inspire a lifelong love of reading
- It boosts confidence, creativity, and imagination
- It helps children get set for a great start to the new school year
- It’s fun for the whole family. Visit your local library together and join in with free Summer Reading Challenge events and activities
