By Diana Paton
Hornsby Shire Council is tackling the ‘summer slide’ by inviting children and young adults aged 0 to 18 to participate in the “Big Summer Read” challenge throughout the upcoming school holidays. The initiative, supported by the NSW Public Libraries Association, offers enticing incentives and major prizes to encourage reading for pleasure.
Registration is now open at all Shire library services, including Hornsby, Berowra, Pennant Hills, and Galston. Participants can register online or collect a form at their local library to start their reading journey, which runs from December 1, 2025, until January 31, 2026.
The program rewards consistent reading: participants earn a sticker for every five days of reading or five books completed. Earning at least three stickers qualifies a child for a certificate, a reward, and an invitation to a Silent Disco celebration night in January. Crucially, each sticker also acts as an entry into a major state-wide prize draw, with chances to win prizes like book bundles, Bluetooth headphones, and a Kobo eReader.
The Big Summer Read will officially launch on Wednesday, December 3, with a special appearance by children’s author Nat Amoore. The bestselling writer of Secrets of a Schoolyard Millionaire and the Shower Land series will be speaking at Hornsby Library at 4:30 pm. Bookings for the launch event are essential.
Hornsby Shire Mayor Warren Waddell highlighted the importance of the program for local literacy development. “The Big Summer Read is a fantastic opportunity for children to be inspired to pick up a good book at their local library and get lost in reading over the long summer break,” Mayor Waddell stated. “Come and explore the wonderful resources available at your local library and discover how the reading challenge can spark new reading habits.”
In addition to the summer challenge, the Hornsby Shire Library Service offers year-round programs, including story time for pre-schoolers, school holiday activities, book clubs, and author talks for adults.
To register for the Big Summer Read and book tickets for the opening event, visit the Council’s website: hornsby.nsw.gov.au/BigSummerRead.
