Read a book and help solve mystery
Youngsters are being encouraged to stave off summer boredom by taking part in a reading challenge.
Children who borrow six books from their local library across the break will be given clues to help crack a special mystery.
Experts say engaging with stories is a more powerful factor in achievement than socio-economic background.
Gavin Newlands, Paisley and Renfrewshire North MP, is backing the Tesco Bank Summer Reading Challenge and says it can help boost learning.
He said:“This is a great campaign that encourages children to read at least six books of their choosing over the summer holidays, a time when children’s literacy skills traditionally dip.
“The challenge is free, inclusive and makes reading fun.
“I know parents and grandparents are always looking for activities to keep the kids entertained during the summer and this is a great way to do this while still helping then to build-up their literacy levels.”
Those taking part will be given clues to help solve the Animal Agents case.
The detectives will be given a collector folder to keep a record of their reading journey at the library and stickers to help solve the puzzle every time they borrow a book.
University College London researches say those using lending services are twice as likely to be above average readers.
Sue Wilkinson, chief executive of The Reading Agency, which runs the challenge, says getting involved can have a lasting impact.
“We believe that everything changes when we read and we know from our research how much fun families and children have when taking part.
“This year, we hope the wonderful characters created for us will inspire more children than ever to take part and make use of their local library throughout the summer and beyond.”
Visit any Renfrewshire Council library this summer to find out how to take part.