Latest news with #StoryGarden
Western Telegraph
19-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Western Telegraph
Golden tickets hidden in Pembrokeshire libraries books
Pembrokeshire Libraries have teamed up with Dr Beynon's Bug Farm in St Davids to add an exciting twist to the Summer Reading Challenge. As part of the Story Garden theme, 32 golden tickets have been hidden in books across the county's libraries. Children who find these tickets will win free entry to the Bug Farm, a popular destination that combines science, nature, and farming. The Summer Reading Challenge, a national initiative run by The Reading Agency, encourages children to read at least six library books over the summer holidays. The aim is to keep children reading during the break, supporting literacy and helping them develop a love for books. This year, those who sign up early will also receive an extra prize. Pembrokeshire Libraries are pulling out all the stops to make the Story Garden theme special for children. To start the fun, local children's author Kerry Curson will be hosting special events at Fishguard, Haverfordwest, and Narberth libraries to launch the challenge and inspire young readers. Throughout the summer, libraries in Fishguard, Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Pembroke Dock, and Tenby will be hosting weekly story and craft sessions related to the theme. These free events aim to keep children engaged, entertained, and learning all summer long. Reading during the holidays is not only fun but also helps children maintain and improve their reading skills, boosts confidence, and encourages creative thinking. Parents and children can follow Pembrokeshire Libraries on social media for updates, event listings, and clues about the golden tickets. The Summer Reading Challenge is more than just about reading; it's a chance for children to explore new worlds, characters, and adventures. So, visit your local library, get involved in the Summer Reading Challenge, and see if your next book holds the key to a fun day out at Dr Beynon's Bug Farm.
Yahoo
12-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Kids' summer reading challenge set to launch in York today
A summer reading challenge is set to launch in York today. The Story Garden Summer Reading Challenge launches at Explore Libraries today (Saturday, July 12), encouraging children to read or share six books over the summer holidays. Lyndsay Glover, who organises the challenge for Explore each year, said: "Reading has life-changing benefits. "Studies show that children who are read to or read regularly are more likely to thrive – not just at school, but in their social and emotional development, too. "They gain stronger language and communication skills, better emotional wellbeing, and greater confidence. "Reading also reduces stress, and sparks imagination. "And it's not just the little ones who benefit – curling up with a good book gives adults a valuable chance to slow down, relax, and take a break from the busy world. "Around 3,000 children in York signed up for the challenge last year and they borrowed more than 65,000 books during the summer. "Can you help us beat that in 2025?" Children who complete the challenge by Saturday, September 13 will receive a medal and certificate. They can also collect stickers along the way to help keep them motivated. Explore Libraries is running a programme of free or low-cost family events throughout the summer. These include craft sessions, theatre performances, storytelling, and workshops designed to suit all ages. A York parent praised the scheme, saying: "I just wanted to express what a fabulous time we've had over the summer holidays across all Explore libraries. "We booked onto all sorts of different sessions as part of the summer reading challenge and have loved every one of them. "Thank you for being a big part of our summer holidays." A family new to the city added: "Thank you so much for the Summer Reading Challenge. "We're new to the area and it has given us so much stability. "My son was never interested in reading before." A young participant said: "Best day ever." To take part, families can sign up at any Explore library. All activities are bookable at To join a library in your area, call or sign up online at
