YOUNGSTERS with a passion for reading are being urged to offer volunteer support to Worcestershire’s Summer Reading Challenge.
The county council’s library service is on the lookout for enthusiastic young volunteers, aged 13 to 24, who are interested in igniting a shared love of books in children across Worcestershire.
The Summer Reading Challenge, a nationwide initiative coordinated annually by The Reading Agency in partnership with libraries, aims to encourage children between the ages of 4 and 11 to keep reading during the summer holidays, ensuring they are ready for a great start to the new term in the autumn.
Volunteers will gain skills and experience, make new connections and have fun whilst assisting library staff for at least five hours. All participants will receive comprehensive training and ongoing support from our dedicated library staff.
Tiffany, a previous Summer Reading Challenge volunteer, who now works for the library service,said: “I have spent many years volunteering for the Summer Reading Challenge and found it to be a fun and brilliant experience.
“I got to spend time chatting about books with children, encouraging them to read, helping with events at the library, and making so many new friends.
“Volunteering has been incredibly rewarding, and I continued for five years. It really helped build my confidence in talking to others and managing my time while dedicating myself to a challenge that helps so many children.”
Last year, 116 young volunteers played an integral part in helping deliver Worcestershire Libraries’ annual Summer Reading Challenge.
They completed an impressive 1,600 cumulative hours. Among them, six volunteers contributed their hours from SRC activities towards their Duke of Edinburgh Award accreditation.
Councillor Karen May, cabinet member with responsibility for communities at Worcestershire County Council, added: “Volunteering at your local library during the summer holidays is a wonderful opportunity for young people.
“As a volunteer for the Summer Reading Challenge, you are able to experience a deeply rewarding experience.
“By igniting children’s love for books, you can not only make a real difference in their lives, but you can also develop skills, make new friends, and create cherished memories.”
Visit https://www.worcestershire.gov.uk/council-services/worcestershire-libraries/read-and-discover/summer-reading-challenge for more information.
Alternatively call 01905 822 722 or visit your library to discuss with staff.
