Big Summer Read set to kick off in Hindmarsh Shire Libraries

Published on 26 November 2025

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Hindmarsh Shire Libraries and Public Libraries Victoria (PLV) are thrilled to announce the return of the Big Summer Read, Australia’s biggest public library-supported reading challenge. Running from 1 December 2025 to 31 January 2026, the campaign encourages young readers aged 0–18 years to keep reading during the summer holidays.

The program is FREE to join, and participants can log any book they read, listen to, or have read to them. Families are encouraged to continue reading aloud to children and track progress through the Read Books website, earning digital badges and entering prize draws. For the first time this year, you can choose to track number of books read OR number of days read over the summer break.

The Big Summer Read is designed to help combat the “summer slide” – the loss of literacy skills that can occur when children stop reading over the long holiday break. “Reading as little as six books over summer can help maintain a child’s literacy level,” said Angela Savage, PLV CEO. “The Big Summer Read makes this fun and accessible for every family.”

Now in its fifth year, the Big Summer Read has expanded beyond Victoria to include public libraries in Tasmania, Queensland, New South Wales and South Australia.

The campaign aims to:

  • Engage young people in reading for pleasure
  • Support literacy development
  • Raise awareness of the free resources available through public libraries

Hindmarsh Shire Libraries have expanded the collection of both physical and digital resources specifically for children and young people in support of the Big Summer Read. Keep an eye on Hindmarsh Shire Libraries Facebook and Instagram platforms for updates and inspiration throughout the campaign period.

To register, visit your local library or sign up online at www.readbooks.com.au/bsr

For more information, please contact Hannah Coles, Coordinator Libraries and Customer Service, on (03) 5391 4444, or email libraries@hindmarsh.vic.gov.au.

Monica Revell
Chief Executive Officer

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