Leeds: Summer Reading Challenge 2026 (Ages 4-11Yrs)

The Leeds City Council Summer Reading Challenge 2026, themed “Read to the Beat”, will launch across Leeds Libraries on Saturday, 4 July.

Designed to celebrate the connection between reading, music, and creativity, this free annual program encourages children from the age of 4 – 11 to keep reading during the holidays.

How It Works
The Goal: Read or listen to 6 books over the summer holidays. Any book counts—picture books, comics, or factual stories.
The Rewards: Children collect special rewards, stickers, and prizes as they hit reading milestones.
The Theme: This year’s musical theme celebrates rhythm, music, and storytelling with free library events to match

Key Event Details
Theme: Music, creativity, and imagination, featuring illustrations by Harry Woodgate.
Launch Day: Super Sign-Up Saturday on 4 July marks the start of registration.
Eligibility: Open to all children aged 4 to 11.
What Counts: Picture books, fact books, poetry, comics, and audiobooks—it all counts!
How to Join
In Person: Visit your nearest local library (such as the Dewsbury Road Community Hub and Library or Hunslet Community Hub and Library near Middleton) to register and receive your collector folder.
Online: Sign up and track progress digitally using the Summer Reading Challenge Website