Southampton City Council Library service invites local families to discover the joy of reading with the 2025 ‘Story Garden’ Summer Reading Challenge

You are invited to take part in The Reading Agency’s 2025 Summer Reading Challenge, encouraging children to explore the magical connection between storytelling and the natural world with this year’s theme: Story Garden – Adventures in Nature and the Great Outdoors

08/08/2025

Illustration of kids on grass with some holding books, plants, watering cans. The text on the illustration reads 'Summer Reading Challenge Story Garden' and text at the bottom of the illustration reads 'Story Garden Illustrations by Dapo Adeola, illustrations and logo copyright The Reading Agency 2025'

The Summer Reading Challenge invites children aged 4-11 to visit their local library, discover new books, and enjoy a summer filled with fun, imagination, and outdoor inspiration.

Featuring beautiful illustrations by award-winning artist Dapo Adeola, Story Garden offers young readers a world of stories, creatures, and nature-based adventures. Children can collect free activity packs, take part in nature-themed events, and borrow specially selected books — all designed to keep them curious, active, and engaged with reading over the summer holidays.

Councillor Alex Winning, Leader of Southampton City Council said: “We’re really excited to welcome children and families back for this year’s Summer Reading Challenge. As a parent myself, I know that reading is a brilliant way to spark creativity and encourage young minds. The Summer Reading Challenge is completely free and provides endless opportunities for children to spend time with their families, friends and discover nature thanks to this year’s inspiring theme. I can’t wait to see our libraries transformed into a Story Garden this summer!”

Karen Napier, CEO of The Reading Agency, added: “The Summer Reading Challenge continues to be a bright light in what has recently been an uncertain picture of children's reading. Story Garden will create magical spaces where children can explore and be curious, combining the joy of reading with the wellbeing benefits of connecting with nature. We’re particularly excited to be working with Dapo Adeola, whose illustrations will bring these adventures to life.”

Now in its 26th year, the Summer Reading Challenge is delivered in partnership with public libraries and is completely free to join. In 2024 the challenge reached nearly 600,000 children and inspired over 100,000 new library memberships across the UK.

To find out how to join in the fun and discover events happening, speak to your local librarian, or visit the Summer Reading Challenge website.