The Winter Reading Challenge 2026
Join the Pawfessionals for a winter of reading and fun!
Give Your Child a Fun Winter Reading Adventure
Looking for a way to keep your child engaged and learning during the winter months? The Winter Reading Challenge 2026 is the perfect solution!
Running from 10 January to 22 February, this challenge is aimed at and encourages children aged 0 to 12 to enjoy books, get creative, and have fun.
Why Join?
- Makes reading fun – The Pawfessionals and themed activities turn books into an adventure.
- Flexible and achievable – Your child only needs to complete six challenges from twelve options.
- Interactive experience – Collect stickers, solve a quiz, and share book reviews online.
- Celebrate success – Earn a certificate and enter the Big Prize Draw when the challenge is complete.
How It Works
- Pick up a challenge sheet at your local Essex library from 10 January.
- Your child chooses six challenges from a set of twelve:
- Blue Challenges: Reading-focused tasks.
- Red Challenges: Fun craft activities.
- Collect Pawfessional stickers for each completed challenge.
- Solve the Library Quiz Word by finding hidden letters.
- Enter the Prize Draw!
Rewards
- A Certificate of Completion for finishing six challenges.
- Opportunity to enter into the Big Prize Draw for exciting prizes, including a family ticket for Colchester Zoo, Kids' Kindles, themed play sets and plushies, and £20 book vouchers!
Meet the Pawfessionals
Our friendly library mascots will guide your child through the Winter Reading Challenge.
Each Pawfessional has a special role in the county and loves helping young readers discover new stories and opportunities.
Meet our team on the Pawfessionals page and read their character stories.
Dates & Details
- The Challenge runs from 10 January – 22 February 2026.
- Where: All Essex libraries.
- Cost: Free.
- Subscribe to our e-newsletter for updates and extra activities during the February half-term.
How to Get Started
Visit your local Essex library from 10 January to collect your child’s Challenge Sheet and start their winter reading adventure!