Louth Library Service has launched the annual Summer Stars reading programme, a national initiative that helps children to maintain and improve their reading skills outside of school.

The launch event, which was held at Louth County Library, Dundalk, was attended by Cllr Kevin Callan, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, Director of Services, Ger Murphy, and first-class pupils from Castletown Girls’ School, Dundalk, who were among the first to sign up for this year’s reading adventure.

Summer Stars encourages children to experience the joy of reading throughout the summer months. The programme is free, open to all children, and is entirely non-competitive. Every child who reads even a single book or e-book is considered to have completed the programme.

Running from June through to the end of August, Summer Stars is available in all Louth library branches in Dundalk, Drogheda, Ardee, Dunleer, and Carlingford.

Children can sign up for Summer Stars by visiting any Louth library branch. Upon registration, each participant will receive a free Summer Stars pack, which includes:

• A reading card to track their reading journey
• An activity book filled with fun, literacy-friendly challenges
• A seeded bookmark made from eco-friendly paper – perfect for marking pages and planting at the end of summer
• A Summer Stars tote bag to carry their summer reads

Participants are encouraged to return their completed reading cards to their local branch by the end of August for a chance to win a family pass to Sky Park, Carlingford.

Cllr Kevin Callan, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said: “The Summer Stars programme is a wonderful way to encourage children to keep reading during the summer break and to enjoy their local library as a place of learning, creativity, and community. I encourage families across Louth to get involved and support their children on this reading journey.”

Amanda Branigan, Acting County Librarian, said: “We’re excited to welcome children to join the Summer Stars adventure so that they can continue to read for fun and enjoyment throughout the summer. It’s a fantastic way to maintain and improve reading skills outside of school.”

Summer Stars is just one of many free events and activities - including story times and arts and crafts – that will take place in Louth libraries throughout the summer to keep children busy during the holidays.

For updates and event information, follow Louth Library Service on Facebook and Instagram or email libraryhelpdesk@louthcoco.ie