German towns launch summer reading festivals in Oberhausen and Bruchsal

The Sterkrader Lesesommer in Oberhausen marks its 10‑year anniversary with a series of readings at unconventional venues—including churches, a bakery, the Technical Town Hall and a funeral home—starting on 28 August 2026. Highlights feature author Lena Schätte reading from her novel "Das Schwarze an den Händen meines Vaters" and a "Krimi‑Kaffeekränzchen" in a local pastry shop.

In Bruchsal, the city library joins the statewide "HEISS AUF LESEN" summer reading club for children aged 8‑14. Running from 14 July to 15 September 2026, participants collect bingo stamps for each book read, with prizes awarded at a ceremony on 18 September. The library received a donation of ten vouchers for the local swimming pool from the municipal utility company.

Both initiatives aim to promote reading enjoyment and media competence among young people across the region.