Young people across Westmorland and Furness are being invited to step into the spotlight to help bring this year's Summer Reading Challenge to life in local libraries.
The much-loved annual challenge, organised by The Reading Agency and delivered by the council's library service, encourages children aged 4 to 12 to get reading throughout the summer holidays.
By borrowing and enjoying reading four or more library books unlocks fun rewards along the way.
Kicking of on Saturday 4 July 2026, this year's exciting theme, 'Read to the Beat' celebrates the connection between music, stories and creativity, inspiring children to discover new books while exploring a world full of rhythm, imagination and fun.
The challenge helps children maintain their reading skills during the school holidays, builds confidence and encourages a lifelong love of books and libraries.
Volunteers play an important role in helping the libraries bring the challenge to life. They will help children take part by welcoming families into libraries, sign up new participants, chat about the books, help children to choose their next read and support fun library activities.
The Council's library service is now searching for even more enthusiastic volunteers, aged 14 to 24, to support this year's challenge.
The opportunity offers young people the chance to gain valuable experience, develop confidence and communication skills, meet new people and make a positive difference in their community.
There are no set hours required. Volunteers can choose to support the challenge as little or as often as they like, and it can be worked around summer plans.
Full training is also provided, and volunteer hours can count towards programmes such as the Duke of Edinburgh Award.
Mari Pearce, Westmorland and Furness Council's Library and Archives Manager, said:
"The Summer Reading Challenge is always a highlight of the school holidays and we're so excited to welcome a new group of 14 to 24 year-old volunteers this year.
"Volunteering is a great way to build confidence, develop new skills and gain valuable experience, while inspiring the youngest residents in our community to enjoy the challenge.
"We're incredibly grateful for the enthusiasm and support our young volunteers bring each year, and we're proud to recognise the important contribution they make to helping children enjoy reading and feel welcome in our libraries.
"We encourage anyone interested to get involved and help make this year's challenge the biggest and best yet."
Kate, a repeat Summer Ready Challenge Volunteer, said:
'Being a Summer Reading Challenge Volunteer has helped me to become more confident in talking and helping people. I have really enjoyed it, so I am volunteering for a third year, this year!'
Young people interested in volunteering with Westmorland and Furness Libraries can complete the Summer Reading Challenge Volunteering application form or contact the local library for more information.
This year's challenge forms a part of the National Year of Reading programme.
The campaign aims to inspire a lifelong love of reading, improve literacy levels, widen access to books and reading opportunities, and bring communities together through shared stories.
By encouraging children to read regularly during the holidays, providing free access to a wide range of books through local libraries, and creating fun, inclusive activities that engage families, the Summer Reading Challenge plays a key role in delivering these national ambitions.
More information on the launch of the 'Read to the Beat' Summer Reading Challenge, including how children can take part and details of themed activity programme Westmorland and Furness libraries, will be shared in the coming weeks.
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