A wild time in borough libraries

6.26.22pm BST (GMT +0100) Sun 12th Aug 2007

A wild time is promised in libraries over the summer as all 12 borough libraries take part in The Big Wild Read - a national reading challenge for four to 11 year olds which takes "nature and the environment" as its theme this year.

Children are challenged to read six or more books, spurred on by an exciting range of free activities. Those youngsters taking part are given a colourful folder to record their summer reading. As they read and return their books, they'll receive scratch-and-sniff stickers to decorate their folder and a pack of wildflower seeds to attract wildlife into gardens. Children who complete the challenge will receive a medal and a special certificate celebrating their achievement. Special Big Wild Read events, workshops and activities will involve them in lots of ways to learn about the environment and how to protect it.

Cabinet Member for Youth, Culture and Leisure, Cllr John Coombs, said: "This initiative will make visits to borough libraries extra special for children this summer, and I hope as many youngsters as possible join in this exciting scheme. Our libraries will help children explore the imaginative world of books - and find out how to make a difference to the environment in the process."