German towns Gütersloh and Hanau launch summer reading clubs

The city of Gütersloh will run its annual Summer Reading Club beginning on Monday, 29 June 2026. Children and teenagers up to 16 can join individually or in teams of 2‑5, collect stamps for books, audiobooks, e‑books and library events, and earn a certificate after gathering at least three stamps. Participants may keep a physical logbook or use an online version, and a final party with a film screening and awards is scheduled for 19 September 2026 at the Filmwerk.

Hanau’s cultural program announces the return of its "Hanau reads a book" festival from 11‑20 June 2027. The event will centre on the novel "Gelbe Monster" by Clara Leinemann, with a series of readings, discussions and site‑specific activities designed to engage the community. Mayor Claus Kaminsky highlighted the festival’s role in fostering dialogue and literary exchange. The festival, which runs biennially, will feature additional formats to broaden access to the book’s themes of love, expectations and emotional dependence.