Read to the Beat

Sleaford Library is calling on families across Sleaford to join the biggest free summer reading adventure of the year – the 2026 Summer Reading Challenge: Read to the Beat

As part of The Reading Agency’s nationwide 2026 Summer Reading Challenge: Read to the Beat, Sleaford Library will be transformed this summer into a magical space full of music, creativity and stories. Families are invited to Go All In and visit the library on the launch day of Saturday 4th July and beyond to sign up for the free challenge and take part in free, fun and themed activities throughout the summer holidays.

Aimed at children aged 4 to 11, Read to the Beat is all about celebrating the joy of music and the power it has to move, inspire and connect us – all through the magic of reading. Younger siblings needn’t feel left out, as there is a special Mini-Challenge just for them to take part in.

From rap to rock, orchestras to K-Pop, this year’s Challenge illustrations are brought to you by award-winning author and illustrator, Harry Woodgate.

Free Read to the Beat events at Sleaford Library this summer include;

• Tuesday 28th July 2.15pm – 3.15pm & 3.30pm – 4.30pm. Design a cardboard guitar.
• Tuesday 4th August 2.15pm – 3.15pm & 3.30pm – 4.30pm. Create a watercolour masterpiece on sheet music
• Thursday 6th August, 2pm – 3pm. Meet GLL Literary Foundation children’s author, Mary Auld.
• Tuesday 11th August 2.15pm – 3.15pm & 3.30pm – 4.30pm. Make a mouse band.
• Tuesday 18th August 2.15pm – 3.15pm & 3.30pm – 4.30pm. Make your own K-Pop kit
• Tuesday 25th August 2.15pm – 3.15pm & 3.30pm – 4.30pm. Create your own drum, fit for a band.
• Saturday 12th September 9am -12.30pm. Celebration Event – Drop in Certificate Ceremony with special guests The BFCH Clansband Drummers workshop from 11.30am-12.20pm

All Tuesday events require a booking, bookings open one week prior to each event. To book on simply speak to a member of library staff or email Sleaford.library@gll.org
Visit Summer Reading Challenge | Lincolnshire Libraries to discover all the free activities on offer and how to get involved.

Charlotte Harris, library manager at Sleaford Library, said ‘Turn up the volume on reading this summer and explore stories, poetry, graphic novels and non-fiction and make visiting Sleaford Library and reading part of your summer adventure. We’ve some fabulous and free activities planned so get on down to the library, sign up and discover amazing books, collect rewards and celebrate the power of reading with us all summer long’