Roll Up Roll Up For All The Fun Of The Circus At Your Local Library

This summer, libraries throughout Cambridgeshire will be hosting the "Circus Stars" summer reading challenge, a great way too keep children reading during the summer holidays.

Last year over six thousand Cambridgeshire children took part in the "Space Hop" reading challenge with over half receiving medals and certificates.

Libraries take part in the highly successful reading challenge as pat of Cambridgeshire County Council's drive to encourage more children to use libraries and enjoy reading.

Children of all ages up to 12 years can enroll at their local library from July 23rd. They will receive a free Circus Stars 3D folder including a membership card and stickers.

Throughout the summer, they will be challenged to read at least six books and to record the details in their folder. For each book they read, they will be awarded stickers [some with scratch and sniff panels!] to decorate their folder.

Most libraries will also be offering special sessions where children can talk to staff about what they have been reading and enjoying and get new reading ideas.

Children may read any kind of books picture books, story books, information books, poetry, joke books or listen to stories on CD. Very young children can read with their parents or carers, older children can challenge themselves with books they have never tried before.

All children who complete the challenge will receive a medal and certificate at special presentation ceremonies.

Every year the Challenge has a new theme. Last year's "Space Hop" challenge had a theme of space travel.

This year's theme has a fun circus theme featuring acrobats and jugglers. There is also a website offering children an exciting fusion of reading and IT with games and blogs from some of their favourite authors.

Cambridgeshire County Council David Harty, Cabinet Member for Learning, said: "The Summer Reading Challenge is a great example of how Cambridgeshire County Council libraries are supporting reading in new ways. The challenge has seen thousands of children taking part and gaining medals but more importantly enjoying reading and using the library. It combines free access to books with social activities and is a proven way of helping children overcome the summer learning dip, sending them back to school really positive about reading."