Carmarthenshire Libraries Open Summer Reading Challenge for Kids

Carmarthenshire Libraries have launched the "Read to the Beat" Summer Reading Challenge, beginning on Saturday 4 July. The scheme invites children aged 4 to 11 in the county to register, select six books to read over the summer holidays and earn a certificate and medal on completion. An online version of the challenge is also available, and there is no requirement to be an existing library member – free memberships can be created at sign‑up.

Delivered nationally by The Reading Agency, the programme aims to inspire continued reading, confidence and creativity. Carmarthenshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Leisure, Culture and Tourism, Cllr Hazel Evans, said the challenge is a highlight of the library calendar. Local author Mark Llewelyn Evans added that reading "opens doors, builds confidence and inspires creativity". Throughout the summer, the libraries will host a range of free activities and events for children and families, and a Mini Challenge for under‑four‑year‑olds offers sticker rewards for each book read.

The initiative is open to all children living in Carmarthenshire, with details of events available via local libraries and social media.