Victorian schoolchildren are being encouraged to spend part of their summer break with books rather than screens as the Allan Government launches the fifth annual Big Summer Read. The program is designed to help counter the drop in reading and literacy skills that often occurs during the long holidays.
Local Government Minister Nick Staikos visited the narrm ngarrgu library in Melbourne’s CBD to mark the start of this year’s challenge. He said the program helps keep young people connected to reading during a period when routines tend to shift and regular study habits can lapse.
Children under 18 can register online and track their progress through the Big Summer Read website. Digital badges, prizes and library-based rewards are used to keep participants motivated. Parents are also encouraged to register on behalf of younger children who are not yet reading independently.
Four statewide winners will each receive a Zoos Victoria family membership, with one winner drawn from each age category. Local libraries will offer additional prizes sourced from their communities, giving smaller and regional library services a chance to run summer programs similar to those offered in larger areas.
Organisers say the program highlights the broader role libraries play as community hubs that support early learning, literacy and ongoing education. It also gives libraries without the resources to run their own summer reading initiatives a ready-made platform to engage local families.
Victorian Public Libraries Ambassador Andrea Rowe said libraries are well placed to support families during the warmer months, providing a cool, welcoming environment with reading options to suit every child. Public Libraries Victoria chief executive Dr Angela Savage added that the program helps lift participation across the state by offering incentives at both local and statewide levels.
Registrations are open now through the Big Summer Read website, where families can find further details about how to take part.
For more info on the Big Summer Read, visit https://readbooks.com.au/bsr
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