Reading Relay set to break records

An attempt to set a record for the most children's books borrowed from libraries in a single day will kick-start an Olympic-themed library promotion this summer. The Reading Relay, organised by development agency LaunchPad, will run in at least 3,500 libraries across the UK.

The organisers hope that more than 500,000 children will borrow a book on 16th June. The record attempt, which is approved by Guinness World records, may be televised live on BBC1's "Blue Peter".

The Reading Relay follows last year's pioneering Reading Safari, which involved 85% of library authorities and inspired 18,000 children to join their local library.

The challenge is aimed at four to 12-year-olds, who will receive a collector wallet to store illustrated record cards—awarded for reading books. Those who fill the wallet will receive a certificate and medal. Two 47-title dumpbins will hold books from 26 publishers who have paid to be featured. Barefoot, Belitha and Cambridge University Press have joined the scheme. Supplier Books for Students will fund design and distribution.

Anne Sarrag of LaunchPad said that the national scale of the scheme was ground-breaking. "Children who are on holiday can use the libraries where they are staying to continue the challenge." Reading Safari research found that 85% of children said the project helped their reading.

The Reading Relay is backed by the Library Association and the Society of Chief Librarians. Jonathan Douglas, LA professional advisor for youth and school libraries, said it demonstrated libraries' willingness to work with the wider book trade. "It also shows our new-found commitment to reader development," he added.