YOUNG readers in Poole are being urged to sign up to the Summer Reading Challenge 2015 and help set a new Guinness World Record.

The attempt takes place on July 11 in all Poole libraries after the Summer Reading Challenge teamed up with Guinness World Records.

Children, parents, carers, young volunteers, teachers, much-loved children’s authors and others around the UK will be asked to make a pledge to help set a new Guinness World Records title for the Most Pledges Received for a Reading Campaign. All 10 Poole Libraries are collecting pledges on Saturday 11 July between 11am-12pm.

Organised by The Reading Agency charity and the public library network, the annual Summer Reading Challenge, aimed at 4- 11 year olds and their families is simple, fun and free.

Children are encouraged to read six or more library books of their choice during the summer holidays with collectable incentives and rewards, plus a certificate, or medal for every child who completes the challenge. Children can sign up at their local library at the start of the summer holidays and there is a mini-challenge for three year olds.

Collecting stickers as they go, young readers can choose from six different categories.

During the summer holidays Poole Libraries will be holding almost 50 free fun activities for children and families. Youngsters can meet authors and artists, take part in dance activities, make sculptures and enjoy Guinness World Records themed craft activities and mini challenges.

Cllr Xena Dion, cabinet portfolio holder for libraries, Borough of Poole, said: “This scheme is a great, fun way to encourage children to enjoy books and to explore the fantastic library facilities Poole has to offer. Younger children, in particular, benefit hugely from reading as it helps develop their imagination and ability to focus which helps their learning."

A minimum of 100,000 pledges are needed to set the world record. The first 2,000 children aged 4-11 in Poole to make a pledge on Saturday 11 July will receive a free Poole Libraries book bag and three year olds will receive a gift too.

For more information visit poole.gov.uk and for more detailed information about the challenge go to readingagency.org.uk/summerreadingchallenge.