Young volunteers needed to support Summer Reading Challenge

Reading Library Service is looking for young people aged 14 to 18 who can encourage children to take part in and complete this year’s Summer Reading Challenge.

The library is hoping to attract young people who are over 14, and enthusiastic about reading.

Tasks will include talking with and listening to younger children about the books they have been reading and suggesting other things they may like to read. The aim would also be to help the children and their parents or carers to understand how the Summer Reading Challenge works, handing out rewards and supporting with events and craft activities.

The library will provide training, supervision and support and it is a great opportunity to develop new skills and experience for the future as well as gain work experience for CVs. Volunteering can also help with accreditation for Duke of Edinburgh or Arts Award.

The much-loved yearly Summer Reading Challenge will be available in all Reading Libraries from 9 July 2022. Children aged 4 to 11 are challenged to read at least six books over the summer as part of this year’s science-themed ‘Gadgeteers’ Summer Reading Challenge.

The library service needs volunteers across all of its branches, including Battle Library, Caversham Library, Central Library, Palmer Park Library, Southcote Library, Tilehurst Library and Whitley Library. 

The Summer Reading Challenge will run between Saturday 9 July and Saturday 10 September – volunteers will be asked to commit to a minimum of 6 sessions over the summer (days and times would be negotiable with the library branch managers). The library will provide a volunteering certificate and would be happy to supply a reference letter to any volunteers who successfully complete the minimum commitment over the summer.

The closing date for applications is Thursday 21 July 2022.

Find more information and apply to volunteer here.

Find out more about the Summer Reading Challenge.