Douglas’s Henry Bloom Noble Library and the Family Library have joined together for the first time to bring primary school-aged children this year’s Summer Reading Challenge.

This year the challenge is going digital in response to Covid-19 restrictions in the UK, so entrants will need to visit sillysquad.org.uk to register and record their summer reading.

Children can read hard-copy books from either library or e-books from HBN Library, available at douglaslibrary.im or via the Libby app.

The challenge encourages children read six books or they can set their own reading goal.

As they read their books they earn reading badges. The Silly Squad website is interactive, with a book sorter which helps with book selection and provides games, ideas and polls.

As well as the online challenge, the first 300 children to sign up at either library will be given a pack containing competitions, treasure hunts and activities happening throughout the summer holidays. Also, if they submit reader reviews, they can collect special edition badges.

Registration at both libraries began last week and the challenge will end on Saturday, September 12.

Douglas Council’s borough librarian Jan Macartney said: ’All of us at HBNL are really excited about teaming up with the Family Library to deliver the 2020 Summer Reading Challenge. Given the disruption to school life caused by Covid-19 these past months, it’s more important than ever that we ensure young people don’t miss out on the joys of reading for pleasure.’