Children encouraged to read all about it

CHILDREN across Dundee are being encouraged to get reading this summer.

Every year in libraries up and down the country, the Reading Agency runs the annual summer reading challenge to get children reading during the school holidays.

Despite lockdown, Dundee librarian Elaine Hallyburton said it is the perfect time for youngsters to take up reading.

“This i s t he biggest children’s reading for pleasure programme i n the UK but we are having to run it a bit differently because of l ockdown,” said Elaine.

“It will be an online challenge this year but it is still encouraging children to read whatever makes them happy and just have some fun.

“A recent survey commissioned by the Reading Agency showed that 45% of young people are reading more during the lockdown, which is absolutely fantastic.

“We know reading for pleasure is more important in determining how well they succeed in life.

“It goes way above socioeconomic status – the more you read, the better your chances in life.

“It also gives children something to do over the summer holidays before they go back to school.”

Elaine added: “Normally there are freebies for those taking part as incentives for them to keep going but we can’t do that this year.

“But if you read six books you can still get a certificate.

“We are also trying to get some authors secured to do online events to keep that community feel while the library is closed and keep reading f or pleasure alive as much as we can.”

Parents who want their children to take part can register their family online at summerreadingchallenge.org.uk and, to help get them started, Dundee Libraries is running digital “borrow boxes” during lockdown.

Children who are library members are able to download “borrow boxes” to receive 10 audio books and 10 ebooks to read.”