Summer Of Fun In Bradford’s Libraries

July 3, 2025 Off By Zaki M

Bradford Libraries Launch Summer Reading Challenge with Over 120 Events

Bradford Libraries will launch the 2025 Summer Reading Challenge on Saturday, 5 July, offering over 120 events across the district for children aged 4 to 12 years. A full list of events and activities can be found in our online Summer Reading Challenge brochure.

Programme Details

Theme and Duration: This year’s theme is “Story Garden,” with the challenge running until Saturday, 13 September. Children can register free at any library within Bradford district.

Registration and Incentives: Participants receive a Story Garden folder containing stickers to collect and pop badges. Children who read six books will receive a Story Garden Certificate and Medal, subject to availability.

Featured Contributors: The programme includes presentations from:

Wrongsemble (award-winning theatre company)
Liz Million (illustrator)
Susannah Lloyd (Bradford’s adopted author)

Grant Funding Recognition

Bradford has been selected as one of 21 library authorities across the UK to receive funding from a £1.5 million grant from the Julia Rausing Trust. The Bradford allocation will support:

Summer Reading Challenge kitbags for children in areas of deprivation
Themed resources based on Joseph Coelho’s “Our Tower”
Inclusive storytelling sessions for children with visual impairments (scheduled for 2026)

About the Summer Reading Challenge

The Summer Reading Challenge is the UK’s largest reading for pleasure programme for children, presented by The Reading Agency and delivered in partnership with libraries. The programme encourages children to maintain reading habits during school summer holidays by setting personal reading goals and allowing participants to read materials of their choice.

Official Statement

Councillor Sarah Ferriby, Bradford Council’s Executive Member for Healthy People and Places, said:

“I am delighted that we are able to offer so many events and activities to our children and families over the summer. I would encourage everyone to look at the brochure and check out what is available at their local library and go down and sign up for the summer reading challenge and enjoy the activities.”