Summer Reading Challenge is back in Dorset Libraries

Dorset Library Service is inviting families from across Dorset to take part in The Reading Agency’s 2025 Summer Reading Challenge, encouraging children to explore the magical connection between storytelling and the natural world with this year’s theme: Story Garden – Adventures in Nature and the Great Outdoors.

Launching on 5 July in England and Wales, the Summer Reading Challenge invites children aged 4–11 to visit their local library, discover new books, and enjoy a summer filled with fun, imagination, and outdoor inspiration.

Featuring beautiful illustrations by award-winning artist Dapo Adeola, Story Garden offers young readers a world of stories, creatures, and nature-based adventures. Children can collect free sticker booklets, take part in nature-themed events, and borrow books — all designed to keep them curious, active, and engaged with reading over the summer holidays.

Cllr Ryan Hope, Dorset Council Cabinet Member for Customer, Culture and Community Engagement said: 

“We’re really excited to welcome children and families back for this year’s Summer Reading Challenge. It’s a brilliant way to combine a love of reading while encouraging young minds to explore nature and creativity, especially as we live in such a beautiful place. We can’t wait to see our libraries transformed into a Story Garden this summer!”

Karen Napier, CEO of The Reading Agency, added:

“The Summer Reading Challenge continues to be a bright light in what has recently been an uncertain picture of children's reading. Story Garden will create magical spaces where children can explore and be curious, combining the joy of reading with the wellbeing benefits of connecting with nature. We’re particularly excited to be working with Dapo Adeola, whose illustrations will bring these adventures to life.”

Now in its 26th year, the Summer Reading Challenge is delivered in partnership with public libraries and is completely free to join. In 2024, the Challenge reached nearly 600,000 children and inspired over 100,000 new library memberships across the UK.

To find out how to join in the fun and discover events happening across Dorset go to our library web pages and for book ideas, fun games and more go to www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk.