Final figures show more than 28,000 books borrowed during Southend's Summer Reading Challenge

October 8, 2026

With the final numbers now analysed, Southend-on-Sea City Council are pleased to share the impact of this summer's "Read to the Beat" Summer Reading Challenge in Southend Libraries.

The challenge encouraged children to keep reading over the school holidays, helping to build confidence, spark imagination and discover the joy of reading through books, comics, poetry, graphic novels, audiobooks and more.

Thanks to the enthusiasm of young readers, families, volunteers and library staff across the city, this summer saw:

487 new child members join Southend Libraries

929 children complete the challenge

1,847 children take part overall

More than 28,000 books, e-books and audiobooks borrowed

57 volunteers give over 1,500 hours of their time supporting young readers

From library visits and activities to community outreach and inspiring conversations about books, “Read to the Beat” helped thousands of children make reading part of their summer.

Cllr Matt Dent, Cabinet Member for Business, Culture, Music and Tourism, said: "A huge thank you to everyone who took part in this year's Summer Reading Challenge and helped make it such a fantastic success. It's been wonderful to see almost 500 new children becoming Library members and almost 2,000 across Southend getting involved and discovering the joy of reading.

"While the challenge may have come to an end, the reading journey doesn't stop here. Whether your child loves adventure stories, comics, fact books, audiobooks or is looking to discover a new favourite author, our libraries offer something for everyone this Autumn.”

The three most popular books issued over the Summer Reading Challenge were:

There's A Dinosaur In Your Book by Tom Fletcher

Despicable Bean! By Sue Hendra

For Whom The Ball Rolls by Dav Piley