More than 15,000 children have signed up to this year’s summer reading challenge and the council is urging people to head down to their local library, before Saturday, September 5 to join in.

Children are encouraged to read six books over the period and visit the library to talk about what they have read. Those who complete the challenge will receive a certificate and medal at a awards ceremony.

They will also be entered into a prize draw with the chance to win a Golden Ticket for an exclusive author event.

Youngsters across the county are also volunteering to help libraries deliver the Summer Reading Challenge.

In total an impressive 441 people are volunteering this year – the largest amount ever recorded in the county.

Abby Watson, a volunteer at Radlett Library, described the reading challenge as "excellent motivation for reading".

She said: "The best thing about the Summer Reading Challenge, whether that be as a participant or a volunteer, is the opportunity to discuss books – novels, non-fiction, audio books and comic books – as it’s not something that one tends to do, especially when you are younger, with other people at home or at school."

Hertfordshire County Council is looking to attract more volunteers to their libraries as part of its Inspiring Libraries strategy.

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