The Reading Agency is working with public libraries across England to launch innovative activities to engage children aged 6 to 11 in creative learning experiences that combine reading, storytelling, coding and hands-on activities. These efforts are part of Reading Sparks, a Reading Agency programme that harnesses the creative power of reading to engage families in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) activities and build confidence in science.
“We’re thrilled to see libraries across the country embracing Reading Sparks and finding exciting ways to make reading and technology fun and accessible for kids. From Lego clubs to coding workshops to imaginative storytelling sessions, these programs demonstrate the critical role libraries play in fueling curiosity and learning.”
Karen Napier, CEO of The Reading Agency.
Highlights of the library’s planned activities, which will take place throughout the summer, include:
- In Barnsley, libraries will expand existing Lego and coding clubs and introduce new self-paced coding workshops using Scratch. These will focus on children aged 6-11 across 7 libraries.
- Calderdale is launching drop-in Lego clubs, aiming to engage older children in Key Stages 2 and 3 as well as families from refugee and asylum seeking backgrounds through coding, digital making and creativity sessions.
- Hull Libraries will expand its Lego Club and use makerspaces during school holidays for technical innovation activities. It also plans to work with home-based teachers as part of a ‘Children’s University’ programme.
- ‘Science Saturdays’ created in Oldham will incorporate coding, gaming, robotics such as Sphero and Micro:bit, as well as reading challenges for families at libraries in Failsworth, Limehurst and Northmoor.
- In Swindon, all five libraries will be expanding their Lego clubs and offering science-themed storytelling sessions aimed at inspiring a love of reading, particularly for primary school boys and SEND schools.
- Warwickshire libraries in Rugby, Leamington and Nuneaton will transform their ‘Let’s Make’ STEM spaces for activities such as Lego clubs, coding for digital storytelling with robots and programmes for homeschooled children.
Find more details about Reading Sparks and individual library activities here.