Free, borough-wide programme to keep children reading all summer
Families in Lewisham are being encouraged to make the most of a free reading programme across the borough’s library network this summer, with a music-inspired theme designed to help keep children engaged with books during the school holidays. The scheme launches on Saturday 25 July 2026 and will run throughout the summer at libraries across the borough.
Branded “Read to the Beat” for this year’s edition, the challenge invites young readers to explore stories in multiple formats, from traditional print to audio, and to collect rewards as they go. The initiative is free to join, open to children of all ages, and does not require tickets.
What families can expect on launch day
The borough-wide launch runs from 10am to 4pm on the opening Saturday and includes a mix of hands-on and creative activities. While exact timetables vary by branch, families can expect:
- An author appearance to kickstart the programme.
- Creative workshops and activities built around the musical theme.
- Audiobook listening stations and demonstrations of screen-free audio options for stories.
- Access to comics and dyslexia-friendly titles to support different reading preferences.
Each participating child will receive a Summer Reading Challenge booklet to track progress and a special edition of Storytime magazine to take home, with prizes to collect over the holidays as milestones are reached.
Where and when
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch date | Saturday 25 July 2026 |
| Time | 10am–4pm (activities vary by branch) |
| Location | All Lewisham libraries |
| Cost | Free – no ticket required |
Residents are advised to check their local library’s listings for precise activity times and availability, as programmes differ from branch to branch.
Encouraging reading in different formats
The scheme places emphasis on access as well as enthusiasm. Alongside shelves of picture books, chapter books and non-fiction, libraries will highlight audiobooks, provide screen-free listening demonstrations, and promote comics and dyslexia-friendly editions. For many families, these formats help sustain reading for pleasure through the long break from school and can broaden the range of stories children choose.
The focus on music in this year’s theme aims to tie reading to rhythm and sound, giving children routes into stories through activities that link words with listening and performance. It is as much about making the library a lively, welcoming place over the summer as it is about the number of pages turned.
How to take part
Signing up is straightforward. Parents and carers can visit any Lewisham library during opening hours from the launch date to register children for free and pick up the challenge booklet and magazine. Staff and volunteers will be on hand to explain how to log reading, explore alternative formats, and collect rewards as children progress.
- Drop in to your nearest branch to enrol from 25 July.
- Collect your booklet and a special edition of Storytime magazine.
- Return regularly to borrow books or audio, log progress and pick up prizes.
Why summer reading matters locally
Schools, libraries and families in Lewisham work together each summer to help children maintain reading confidence and enjoyment. For many pupils, the long holiday can interrupt good habits built during term time. A structured, friendly programme – especially one that recognises achievement with small rewards – can make a tangible difference to motivation and routine.
Libraries also provide safe, free spaces where parents and carers can bring children for learning and play. With the cost of activities weighing on many households, a no-cost option available in every part of the borough is likely to prove popular.
Plan your visit
While the core offer is consistent, opening times and activity schedules vary. Families are encouraged to look up their local branch details in advance to make the most of author sessions, workshops and demonstrations. The programme is open-ended across the summer, so those who cannot make the launch day will still be able to sign up later.
Further information is available directly from Lewisham libraries. No booking is required, and all activities listed for the challenge are free of charge.
