Alderley Edge Library hosted an awards ceremony on Thursday, 14th September for the youngsters who completed this year's Summer Reading Challenge, which encourages children to keep up their reading during the holidays.
Councillor Craig Browne attended along with some of the youth councillors to present medals and certificates to the 4 to 11 year olds who completed the challenge.
Organised by the Reading Agency, children are challenged to read six library books of their choice and they receive a little incentive at each stage to encourage them.
This year's Summer Reading Challenge had the theme 'Animal Agents' which introduced young readers to a variety of clever creatures, specially trained to use their skills and natural instincts to unravel mysteries. Animal Agents was illustrated by Tony Ross, illustrator of the hugely popular Horrid Henry series.
Librarian Janet Haley said "We were really lucky because we received a donation from the Alderley Edge Institute Trust so we were able to offer extra incentives to the children during the challenge and we were also able to hold craft sessions during the summer."
Janet added "We were really pleased so many children took part and completed the challenge. It has been a really successful year."
One hundred children started the challenge, of which sixty-four read all six books, compared with forty-nine who completed it last year.
Councillor Craig Browne said "I would like to congratulate all the children on completing the Summer Reading Challenge and on receiving their awards. Libraries are part of the social fabric of the communities they serve, as well as being important cultural and educational resources. It is vital that we continue to use them, otherwise we risk losing them. This year, we had 64 children taking part in the reading challenge and I think that shows how relevant libraries still are."
He added "This year, it was a pleasure to be joined in presenting the awards by three of our village Youth Councillors: Louis Johnson, Matthew Marshall and Maisy Marshall. They each took a few moments to explain why being a Youth Councillor is important to them. The Youth Council is open to any young person between the ages of 10-16 years and with an interest in the future of Alderley Edge."
