Families across Powys are being encouraged to make full use of a county-wide programme of free activities at local libraries, museums and archives over the school summer holidays. The offer ranges from creative workshops and music sessions to opportunities to explore local history, with the return of the national Summer Reading Challenge a central feature for children.
Free activities across the county
Powys County Council has confirmed that its cultural venues are hosting a varied schedule designed to help keep children engaged through the break without adding to household costs. Sessions highlighted by the council include craftmaking, Lego clubs, story and rhyme times, treasure hunts and other drop-in activities. All are free of charge, though availability and exact timings vary by location.
Families can find and contact their nearest library for local details via the council’s library pages: storipowys.org.uk/visit-us/libraries/.
Summer Reading Challenge returns
The popular Summer Reading Challenge is back, encouraging children to discover new books, build confidence and strengthen reading habits while schools are closed. Children can sign up at their local library and work towards rewards through the summer. Library staff are on hand to advise on age-appropriate choices and to support families in making reading a part of daily routines.
Museums open their doors — and their processes
From Friday 17 July, the newly redeveloped Y Lanfa museum, Welshpool, is welcoming visitors while work to complete its displays continues. The public is being offered a behind-the-scenes view of how exhibitions are assembled and cared for, giving families a rare chance to see museum practice up close as the final stages of installation progress.
Meanwhile at y Gaer, Brecon, visitors can explore The Art of Meg Stevens: Local Nature and Landscapes, showcasing work by one of Wales’ recognised contemporary artists. Further details are available via the event listing: event information.
Borrow more than books
In addition to events, libraries are promoting a selection of practical items that can be borrowed, offering families low-cost ways to try new activities. Depending on location, these can include balance bikes, sports bags and Boromi bags for early-years play and learning. Residents are advised to check with their local branch for current availability.
“Our libraries, museums and archives offer fantastic opportunities for childre”
What’s on offer at a glance
| Venue type | Examples of activities | Useful information |
|---|---|---|
| Libraries | Summer Reading Challenge; crafts; Lego; stories and rhymes; treasure hunts | Find your nearest branch: library finder |
| Museums | Behind-the-scenes access at Y Lanfa (Welshpool) while displays are completed | From 17 July; check on-the-day arrangements at the venue |
| Archives | Opportunities to explore local history (check local listings) | Contact venues directly for session times |
| Galleries | The Art of Meg Stevens at y Gaer (Brecon) | Exhibition details: event listing link above |
How to plan your visit
While activities are free, some sessions may be popular. Families are encouraged to:
- Use the library finder to confirm opening times and activity schedules.
- Ask staff about any sign-up requirements for specific events.
- Check on-the-day information for Y Lanfa as display work continues on site.
- Enquire locally about borrowing items such as balance bikes, sports bags and Boromi bags, as stock varies by branch.
The summer schedule is designed to be accessible across the county, offering low-cost ways to keep children active and learning. With the reading challenge back in libraries, behind-the-scenes access in Welshpool, and a notable exhibition in Brecon, the council’s cultural venues are aiming to support families throughout the holiday period.
Further updates are expected through local branches and venue websites as the holiday programme progresses.
