Volunteers needed for the 2026 Summer Reading Challenge

April 22, 2026

Southend Libraries are looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help with the 2026 Summer Reading Challenge.

This is a fantastic summer holiday volunteering opportunity for all adults and young people (aged 14 and over) who would like to encourage children to read and give something back to their community.

Now in its 27th year, the annual initiative encourages children to read six books over the holidays, keeping them reading for pleasure while boosting confidence, literacy and imagination.

This year’s theme is “Read to the Beat,” celebrating stories that make children want to move, dance and feel the rhythm of reading!

Why volunteer?

Volunteers play a vital role in bringing the Challenge to life. You’ll:

Chat to children about the books they’re enjoying

Encourage and motivate young readers

Reward their achievements with stickers, certificates, medals and prize entries

All training is provided, and volunteers can choose the library most convenient for them. Whether you’re looking to gain work experience, build confidence, or simply give back to your community, this is a fun and rewarding opportunity.

Aida Esposito, Director of Culture, Leisure, Music and Tourism, said: “A lifelong love of reading often begins in childhood, sparked by a friendly conversation, a moment of encouragement, or someone taking the time to listen to a child talk about a story they’ve enjoyed. The annual Summer Reading Challenge captures that magic beautifully.

“Our volunteers play a hugely important role in helping children discover the joy, confidence and imagination that reading brings, and in creating positive memories of libraries that can last a lifetime. It’s a wonderful way to support our young readers, strengthen our communities and share the gift of reading with the next generation.”

Previous volunteers have described the role as enjoyable, meaningful and confidence-boosting, and families agree: “We absolutely loved the Challenge; volunteers were brilliant, so engaging with the kids. Thoroughly impressed with it all!”

A proven impact

The Summer Reading Challenge continues to make a huge difference across Southend:

2,276 children took part in 2025

Almost 43,000 children’s books were borrowed over the summer

Nearly 600 new child members joined Southend Libraries

330 children attended additional library events and activities

53 volunteers supported the Challenge, including 37 young people aged 14–25

This year, Southend Libraries are aiming even higher: recruiting 10 volunteers at each of their six libraries, with 60 volunteers needed across the city to support even more young readers.

When and how much time?

The Challenge runs throughout the school summer holidays, from Saturday 18 July to Saturday 29 August 2026.

Volunteers are asked to commit to at least 10 days, from 9:45am to 3:15pm (including a one-hour lunch break). Additional sessions may be available for those who wish to do more.

Ready to join the rhythm of reading?

Apply online via www.southend.gov.uk/SRCVolunteer or ask at your local Southend library for an application form.

For more information, please email: librarydevelopment@southend.gov.uk 

The deadline for applications is Monday 1 June. Places are limited — just 10 per library — so apply early to avoid missing out!

The Summer Reading Challenge is a brilliant starting point for anyone new to volunteering, offering a chance to learn more about our libraries and connect with the people who use them. It’s equally well suited to those who have volunteered with us before and are keen to do more, broaden their experience, or explore other ways to get involved.

We welcome new and returning volunteers across our cultural services throughout the year, and many Summer Reading Challenge volunteers continue to support our Libraries in other rewarding roles.