In a bid to promote the joy of reading and physical activity, Bradford Libraries are gearing up to launch this year’s Reading Agency Summer Reading Challenge with an exhilarating cycle ride. The event, centred around the theme of sport and games, will commence with a thrilling journey from Bingley Library to Shipley Library on Saturday, June 24.
Children, accompanied by their parent or carer, are invited to join the free bike ride, which will kick off at 9:45 am from Ferncliffe Road car park, conveniently situated opposite Bingley Library. Led by ride leaders from Bradford’s Capital of Cycling, participants will follow a picturesque route along the Leeds Liverpool Canal, culminating at Shipley Library. It is important to note that booking is essential for the bike ride, and free tickets can be secured via Ticket Source (available at https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/; simply search for Bradford Libraries) or by requesting a booking form from susan.brewster-craig@bradford.gov.uk.
To encourage young readers, each child participating in the bike ride will receive a complimentary book to treasure. Safety is of utmost importance, therefore all children and their accompanying adult must bring their own bicycles and wear helmets throughout the ride. Additionally, participants should possess the necessary confidence and competence to ride safely along the canal towpath.
Following the invigorating bike ride, the festivities will continue at Shipley Library from 12 noon to 1 pm. Visitors can revel in a range of captivating stalls and engaging games, and even enjoy the pedal-powered smoothie bike. Light refreshments will also be available, adding to the convivial atmosphere. A ribbon cutting ceremony will officially inaugurate the Summer Reading Challenge, making this occasion even more special. It is worth noting that booking is not required for this segment of the event, and all are welcome to attend.
Those who have reserved a spot for the cycle ride can partake in the return journey, commencing at 2 pm from Shipley Library. Families have the option to make alternative arrangements if they prefer. Furthermore, adults with booked tickets are entitled to bring up to two children along.
This exciting event marks the commencement of this year’s Summer Reading Challenge, boasting over 100 free events and activities suitable for children between the ages of 4 and 11. These engaging events will be hosted in various libraries across the Bradford district, spanning from Saturday, July 8, to Saturday, September 16.
Participants of the Summer Reading Challenge will receive a Ready Set Read folder upon registration at their local library. Inside, they will find stickers to collect, a bookmark, a frisbee, and for those who read six books, a coveted Ready Set Read Certificate and Medal (subject to availability). Registration is completely free and can be completed at any library within the Bradford district.
The Summer Reading Challenge is the largest reading for pleasure program for children in the UK. Presented by The Reading Agency and delivered in partnership with libraries, this initiative encourages children to maintain their reading habits during the school summer holidays. Participants are encouraged to set reading goals and can enjoy any literature of their choice.
This year’s Ready Set Read challenge has been developed collaboratively with the Youth Sport Trust. By celebrating play, participation, and the amalgamation of reading, games, and sports, the challenge aims to empower children to engage in these activities in ways that suit them best. The initiative seeks to highlight how reading can be an active and immersive experience that fosters teamwork and community involvement.
Councillor Sarah Ferriby, Bradford Council’s Executive Member for Healthy People and Places, expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming Summer Reading Challenge, stating, “This year, the theme for the Summer Reading Challenge is ‘Ready Set Read,’ which aims to utilise the power of play, sport, and physical activity through reading. Incorporating a bike ride into the launch is a fantastic way to celebrate this theme. I hope many children can participate in the bike ride and continue their reading journey throughout the school holidays by joining the Summer Reading Challenge.”
For further information about the exciting activities and events lined up for the Summer Reading Challenge, visit www.bradford.gov.uk/libraries.
