Read to the Beat: Norfolk libraries launch annual Summer Reading Challenge

Harnessing the universal appeal of music to tackle the decline in children's reading is the theme of this year's Summer Reading Challenge. 

Nationally one in four children are unable to read well by age 11, and 8.7 million adults lack basic reading skills. 

All 47 libraries and mobile libraries in Norfolk will be championing the campaign, which coincides with the National Year of Reading. Already more than 1,000 children have signed up. 

Running from Saturday 4 July to Saturday 12 September a selection of free events will be held including Let's Dance Silent Discos, Once Upon a Tune, and Radio Play and Sound workshops. A full list of events can be found here 

Beth Southard, Children and Young People's Service Manager, said: "Research consistently shows reading for pleasure is the biggest indicator of a child's future success.  

"Just because reading is important doesn't mean it needs to feel like work, or boring. Reading can also be incredibly fun. It's about finding the right type of books, the content that excites children. There are lots of wonderful lands, worlds and cultures waiting for us to jump in and explore them." 

There is a special mini challenge for under five-year-olds, and those from 4-11-years-old can set their own reading goals and discover diverse musical genres through specially curated reading lists.  

Everyone who completes the challenge will be awarded a medal and a certificate.  

Last year in Norfolk 10,330 children aged between 0-11 took part in the Summer Reading Challenge.  

For more information visit Summer Reading Challenge.