The 2026 Summer Reading Challenge: Read to the Beat starts Saturday 4 July and finishes Saturday 12 September
The Reading Agency, in partnership with libraries and powered by Universal Music UK, launches the Summer Reading Challenge 2026: Read to the Beat, with super Sign-up Saturday on Saturday 4 July.
Children will be able to discover the joy of reading through the Summer Reading Challenge, with a fantastic range of books inspired by music from around the world. They will be able to explore stories, poetry, graphic novels and non-fiction for all reading levels.
Best of all, books are free to borrow from your local library.
Sign up to the challenge from 4 July at your local library.
As part of the National Year of Reading, Dorset libraries are encouraging families to make reading and visiting the library part of their summer adventures. Children can set their reading goals, join in with library events and enjoy rewards along the way.
The 2026 theme, Read to the Beat, celebrates the joy of music and the power it has to move, inspire and connect us, all through the magic of reading.
Now in its 27th year, the Summer Reading Challenge inspires hundreds of thousands of young readers across the UK each summer. Last year alone, over 11 million books were borrowed from libraries during the Summer Reading Challenge, including audio and e-books.
Families can expect:
- special events and interactive experiences showcasing how music can spark imagination
- inspiring book displays covering a mix of picture books, fiction, non-fiction, poetry and graphic novels aligned with the music theme
- digital activities, games and competitions through the Summer Reading Challenge website
Register for Read to the Beat
Register for Read to the Beat from Saturday 4 July. Please complete the registration form, and then visit your local Dorset Library to collect your Read to the Beat sticker booklet.