READING libraries are calling for children to take part in a special mission by signing up to read six books this summer.

This will be part of libraries' space themed Summer Reading Challenge 2019.

It was launched on Saturday, July 13, and aims to get more children reading over the summer period – a time when children's literacy skills traditionally dip.

Youngsters will be challenged to borrow and read at least six books over the holidays, and are rewarded for each book read.

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This year's Space Chase theme is an out-of-this-world adventure, inspired by the 50th anniversary of the first moon landing.

Children will help the super space family track down books nabbed by mischievous aliens.

As they read library books, they will solve clues and collect special stickers to complete their mission folder.

Successful readers will also be presented with a special certificate and a medal.

Councillor Karen Rowland, lead councillor for culture, heritage and recreation, said: "We know children’s reading can 'dip' during the long summer holidays if they don't have regular access to books and encouragement to read for pleasure – and this can be a problem for schools to put right in the new term.

"This is a great, free way for youngsters to keep on reading, while having fun with Reading Library Service's jam packed programme of events.

"I remember fondly summer reading programmes from when I was a child and they instilled in me a love of reading that I still have to this day.

"Last year's extremely popular summer reading challenge saw more than 1,700 children between the ages of 4 – 13 taking part.

"I'm really excited by this year's space theme to mark the 50th anniversary of the moon landings and I'm eager to see as many youngsters as possible join in with this year's space challenge and make use of their local library this summer."

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Summer Reading Challenge, an event which has been running since 1999.

In Reading 1,717 children between the ages of four and 13 took part in last year's Mischief Makers Beano themed challenge.

Anyone wanting to learn more is asked to contact their local library.

Please note that Battle Library in west Reading is temporarily closed for transformation work, reopening in September 2019 with a new flexible community space.

To take part in the challenge please head to Central library or one of the other libraries in Reading.

The library is also looking to recruit volunteers aged 14-18, who they will provide with training, guidance and support.

The teenage volunteers would work across all local library branches, encouraging children with their reading and helping to run events and craft activities.

Find out more here.