Children and families are being encouraged to 'go green, get reading and get rewards' this summer 2025, by taking part in the latest challenge from Gloucestershire Libraries.
An annual event during the school holidays, libraries across Gloucestershire are inviting children aged three and above to learn more about the natural world through the 2025 challenge, which is free to take part in anytime during the summer with a free library membership.
With more than 2,000 children signed up so far, participants can complete a range of tasks, including reading any books they choose, connecting with STEAM – science, technology, engineering, arts and maths – and getting out into nature.
Once signed up, they will receive a free challenge journal, containing nine 'exciting' natural world-themed tasks. Stamps can be collected for each completed task and rewards are available at each level, including stickers, certificates and more.
Those who reach gold level will receive an 'eco medal', made at tech labs in libraries across the county by laser cutting cardboard to make them recyclable.
Medal winners will also be entered into a draw to win prizes, including tickets and vouchers for local attractions.
Throughout the summer, there are also a range of activities and events connected to the 'Natural World' theme taking place across the county's libraries.
In Gloucester, Cheltenham and Bishops Cleeve, there's a 'magical musical adventure' featuring Paddington Bear and the Owl and the Pussycat, with live classical music, puppets and 'a sprinkle of silliness!'.
Acclaimed children's author Andy Seed is visiting Lydney, Cheltenham and Moreton-in-Marsh to share animal facts and answer questions about what it’s like to be a writer.
Budding scientists can also roll up their sleeves and experiment with the forces of nature in Dursley, Quedgeley, Oakley and Fairford, with Diatom Dave from Fun Science Cheltenham.
There's also a chance to discover your inner warrior, float like a lotus flower or connect with your playful puppy side, at family yoga workshops in Bishops Cleeve, Tetbury and Tuffley.
Booking in advance for the events is advised, with a full schedule available at gloslibraries.uk/events.
For more information about the challenge, including a discovery map of participating libraries, visit gloslibraries.uk/welcome-library-challenge.
