The On Our Doorstep Summer Holiday Guide
Family fun at libraries
Our libraries have got so much planned for the family this summer, here’s just a taster! Some of the events are available to book now but some will be available to book on to very soon, keep an eye on our TicketSource page so that you don’t miss out!
The Summer Reading Challenge
The Summer Reading Challenge is the UK’s biggest free reading for pleasure programme for children. Taking place annually, the Challenge encourages children aged 4 to 11 to keep reading during the summer holidays. This year, the Challenge begins on Saturday 8 July.
This year’s challenge is all about games and sports. Children will join our fictional team (and their animal mascots!) as they use their skills to weave their way through a summer obstacle course.
Developed in collaboration with the Youth Sport Trust, the 2023 Summer Reading Challenge will celebrate play and participation, encouraging children to engage in games and sports in any way that best suits them. Ready, Set, Read! will showcase how reading can be active and engaged, and can itself involve teamwork and community.
You can join the challenge at your local Kirklees library and take part in person. The library will give you a special collector folder, stickers, and other special incentives, and help you find books to read for your Challenge.
Book Hunters! Summer Challenge
You can start by grabbing your free guide for Book Hunters! from any Kirklees Library branch between July 14 – September 11. You will have to visit the locations in this guide and find the hidden QR codes on site.
When you find the QR code, you must scan it with your phone camera. This will take you to a secret webpage with a fun mission to complete and a list of book suggestions! There are 7 QR codes hidden around Kirklees, how many will you find?
Check out the opening times for all of our 24 branches.
Remember to make a library book your travelling companion, nothing beats relaxing and reading outdoors for fun. Borrow your book companions via any Kirklees branch or download E-Books and Audio Books from our Libby app.
If you’re reading this on your computer or tablet, try scanning the QR code in the picture above with your phone to get started!
Once Upon a Tune Story Trails
Explore the power of music, illustration and storytelling outdoors with our exciting storytrails. This summer’s trails are inspired by the stunningly illustrated book Once Upon a Tune from award-winning artist James Mayhew. Search for the illustrations on our trail, experience the engaging stories that inspired famous tunes including Flight of the Bumblebee and The Sorcerer’s Apprentice and create your own musical artwork. Recommended for families with children up to age 8.
When and where: You can drop into any of the below sessions between 12 pm – 4 pm.
- Monday 31 July, Ravensknowle Park
- Tuesday 1 August, Crow Nest Park
- Wednesday 9 August, Greenhead Park
- Thursday 17 August, Wilton (Batley) Park
- Friday 25 August, Beaumont Park
Kane Martial Arts
Rebecca Kane founder of Kane Martial Arts will be teaching some self defence skills, to improve confidence. Rebecca has been involved in Martial Arts and dance for over 30 years. She has won world titles for full contact fighting and forms and was one of the first under 16 females to travel to the Philippines in Asia for the world championships aged 15. Her martial arts school specialises in delivering age specific martial arts programmes. She loves empowering generations to become more active both physically and mentally. This session is for children aged 7-12.
When: Friday 4 August, 10.30am / 2:00pm
Where: Dewsbury Library / Greenwood Centre.
Everybody Loves A Cape: Reading Heroes
Participating children will make and decorate their own reading hero capes! First, we will learn how to make a hem and then you can decorate your reading Hero cape inspired by your favourite book or character – using whatever method you chose sewing, drawing, painting and so many more! (Please note this activity will involve sewing and is aimed at children 8+).
Upcoming summer events at Kirklees Libraries
These events will be available to book on to very soon, keep an eye on our TicketSource page so that you don’t miss out!
Henry Bateman
What do you love about the place you live? Come along to this musical activity in celebration of the Kirklees Year of Music and learn how to put the words you use to describe where you live to music to create your very own song. Age 6+
Tom Palmer
Join football fiction writer, Tom Palmer, to celebrate reading, sport and the Women’s World Cup. Tom will host his famous Football Reading Game, which includes a quiz, a penalty shoot out and a trophy for the winner. For children aged 7-11.
Sports Quiz Event
A fun sports quiz for children aged 7-11, recommended for teams of 2-4 children. Grown ups are welcome to stay (but no helping!) Categories include: football, cricket, the Olympics, world sports and general sports knowledge.
Pyjama Drama
An interactive performance by Pyjama Drama where the audience will be actively encouraged to get involved: singing, dancing, playing games and taking on different roles. A wonderful show for children aged 3-7 and their families!