CHILDREN across Devon can join ‘The Summer Book Quest’ for free at their local library.

From July 12, the brand new Quest, the creation of Libraries Unlimited, the charity commissioned to run the libraries in Devon and Torbay, becomes available.

It offers a refreshing change to the usual reading challenge with children encouraged to participate by doing a variety of activities along the theme of ‘Deep Sea Adventure’.

Activities include drawing a sea creature (real or imagined), trying a water activity like swimming or rock pooling, and telling a member of staff an underwater fact.

To promote inclusion, children can either count how often they read for ten minutes or logging how many books they read.

Most libraries will be hosting a launch event to encourage children to find joy in reading over the summer holidays.

‘This new initiative is all about welcoming every child – especially those who might not yet see themselves as readers’, said Sophie Crofts, Libraries Unlimited Reading Development Manager.

‘With our fun-filled Deep Sea Adventure theme, children can dive into stories, meet ninja starfish, enjoy creative activities, and explore their local libraries however they like.

‘It is a celebration of every child’s reading journey and a reminder to care for our seas and beaches.

‘We have made it easier than ever to get involved, and we can’t wait to see the joy it brings!’, Sophie added.

The summer will bring a range of Deep Sea Adventure-themed children’s events and activities to libraries, with some working with their local swimming pools and sports centres to offer children free swimming sessions.

Some regions even have exclusive swimming sessions for The Summer Book Quest finishers.

Sea Science Adventures, a Devon Science collaboration with Libraries Unlimited, is coming to 19 libraries over the summer holidays.

These science workshops will involve slime-making, creating a bubbling lava lamp and a magnet fishing game.

Libraries Unlimited has also partnered with Surfing England to share information at surf clubs, Surfers Against Sewage to provide educational resources like their online Ocean School, and Active Devon to encourage families to enjoy active time together through swimming and outdoor activities.

The Summer Book Quest aims to engage children with not only reading but also the fun and knowledge their local library can bring.

To find out more about The Summer Book Quest activities at your local library pop in or visit: https://discover.librariesunlimited.org.uk/whats-on#/?tag=summer%20book%20quest