Awen Cultural Trust, the charity which manages libraries in partnership with Bridgend County Borough Council, is encouraging local residents to join their first-ever reading challenge for adults when it launches on Saturday 6th July.

The ’21 Book Challenge’ hopes to encourage adults to explore new titles, uncover new genres and expand their reading horizons. Free ‘bingo sheets’ can be collected from Awen Libraries and prizes* will be awarded after 7, 14 and 21 books have been read.

Books, eBooks, audiobooks and eAudiobooks can be borrowed from each theme can be borrowed from the library, and themes include: a book that was turned into a film or TV series; a book by a Welsh author; and a book originally written in another language.

The Awen Libraries team have selected 21 of their favourite reads for each of the themes to help members get started. These will be available on the website www.awen-libraries.com and readers are encouraged to share their progress on social media using the hashtag #21BookChallenge.

Richard Hughes, Chief Executive of Awen Cultural Trust, said:

“Each year, thousands of school aged children enjoy the Summer Reading Challenge run by our libraries in partnership with The Reading Agency. Our colleagues thought it was time the grown-ups experienced some of this fun and receive rewards for reading something a little different to usual!

“As well as the chance to collect a limited edition tea towel and tote bag, taking part in the 21 Book Challenge supports emotional and mental wellbeing benefits too. Reading for just 6 minutes reduces stress levels by 68%, more effective than listening to music, taking a walk or having a cup of tea.”

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