Record 3,456 children join Sefton Libraries’ Summer Reading Challenge
More children than ever before have signed up to Sefton Libraries' Summer Reading Challenge.
Read to the Beat
A record-breaking 3,456 young readers taking part in this year'sRead to the Beatprogramme. The figure surpasses last year's previous record of 3,100 sign-ups and continues Sefton's reputation as one of the best-performing library authorities in the North West for participation in the annual challenge.
This year’s music-themed Summer Reading Challenge encouraged children to discover the joy of reading through books, activities and events taking place in libraries across Sefton throughout the school holidays.
A fantastic achievement
Cllr Liz Dowd, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for Libraries, said:“To finish the 2026 Summer Reading Challenge with a new record of 3,456 children signed up is a fantastic achievement and something everyone involved should be incredibly proud of.
“When we announced that 2,000 children had signed up in the first week of the holidays, we knew there was real enthusiasm for this year’s challenge. To go on and surpass last year's record shows just how much families across Sefton value reading, their local libraries and the opportunities they provide.
“The Summer Reading Challenge is a fun way to keep children engaged with reading during the holidays, helping them develop confidence and maintain important skills ready for the new school year.”
Taking place each summer, the national Libraries' Summer Reading Challenge helps children maintain their reading skills over the summer break while building confidence, creativity and a lifelong love of reading.
Most successful Summer Reading Challenge yet
Cllr Dowd added:“I would like to thank all the children who took part, their families for supporting them, and our fantastic library staff and volunteers who helped makeRead to the Beatsuch a success.
“Congratulations to everyone who took part in making this our most successful Summer Reading Challenge yet.”
Sefton Council continues to support reading initiatives through its libraries, including the National Year of Reading 2026, helping more people discover the benefits and enjoyment of reading.
Also, Southport will become a living storybook for the October half term as Books Alive! brings a world of imagination and adventure to the town. This free kids’ festival will take place from Saturday 24th to Saturday 31st October, bringing children's stories to life with a mix of immersive and interactive experiences throughout the town centre and a festival set to take over The Atkinson.
You can find more information about Sefton Libraries and upcoming events here.
And you can use this link to find details of October'sBooks Alive!.
