Read to the Beat: North Yorkshire’s music‑themed reading challenge

The "Read to the Beat" challenge encourages children to read six library books over the summer holidays, with stickers and prizes on offer.

Starting on Saturday, July 4, the scheme is open to children aged four to 11.

Young volunteer Emily Scott (left), reading to Luna, who is excited to take part in the Summer Reading Challenge. (Image: NYC)

Simon Myers, North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for arts and culture, said: "By combining music with reading, there’s no better way to spark a child’s imagination and creative flair.

"The annual reading challenge is fun and accessible for families taking part and encourages more people to make use of their local library.

"It’s important to keep young people reading during the summer break, as it’s a time when learning can dip and take a back seat.

Primary school pupils Halima and Scarlett are keen to take part in the challenge, collecting prizes as they go (Image: NYC)

"Our library staff and young volunteers helping to run the challenge are on hand to support families taking part to read six books and collect prizes as they do so."

The "Read to the Beat" theme invites children to explore the connection between stories and songs, using both forms of expression to fuel creativity.

Featured books highlight musicians, characters discovering music, cultural traditions, rhythm and creative expression.

Pupils at Christ Church CE Primary School in Skipton visited Skipton Library to use the musical instruments on offer (Image: NYC)

The programme is designed to help children better understand emotions and improve language skills by bringing stories to life in a new way.

Schools are joining in the excitement, with Diane Cooper, headteacher at Christ Church CE Primary School in Skipton, eager to see pupils take part.

She said: "The children are excited to again take part in the Summer Reading Challenge.

"Maintaining reading habits over the summer is one of the most effective ways to ensure children return to school confident and ready to continue learning.

A selection of the books and musical instruments that will be available at North Yorkshire libraries throughout the challenge (Image: NYC)

"Learning doesn't stop during the holidays, and our local libraries offer incredible free resources and opportunities for every family.

"We will be encouraging all our children to take part in the challenge, discovering new worlds and more."

Libraries will also host hundreds of events and activities—many of them free—in partnership with musical organisations.

Children will have the chance to create music through rap workshops, drumming sessions, and singing activities.

Full details of these events can be found on individual library Facebook pages and the North Yorkshire Council website.

The council is backing the National Year of Reading, a campaign to promote reading for pleasure and rekindle a love of books among people of all ages.

There is still time to volunteer, with opportunities open to those aged between 13 and 24.

Volunteers help register children, recommend books, discuss reading, hand out rewards, and support events.

To find out more about volunteering and to apply, go to or contact your local library. For more information about the reading challenge, visit www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk.

The Summer Reading Challenge is organised by the Reading Agency in partnership with Universal Music Group UK.