A Summer of Stories, Music and Fun at Awen Libraries

Our libraries have been buzzing with activity during the summer holidays, as hundreds of children and young people have already signed up for this year’s Summer Reading Challenge.

The 2026 theme, Read to the Beat, celebrates the connection between stories and music, encouraging children to discover how both can spark imagination, creativity and self-expression. Participants are challenged to read six or more library books over the holidays, collecting rewards as they progress.

Alongside all that reading, families have been enjoying a packed programme of free activities, including African drumming, coding, Bollywood dance, silent discos, drawing workshops, movement and dance, and regular Story and Craft sessions at Y Nyth in Bryngarw Country Park.

Our individual libraries have also been hosting their own events, creating even more opportunities for children to have fun, learn new skills and spend time together.

It has been wonderful to see so many children excited about books and enjoying everything their local library has to offer. A huge thank you goes to our hardworking library colleagues for creating such a welcoming programme and helping to make this summer full of reading, creativity and fun.

There is still time to join the challenge. Families can visit their local Awen library to collect a free sticker booklet and start their reading journey before the new school term begins.