Mum with two little boys browsing for picture books at the library.

Reading Programmes are an important activity for children and teens to help keep up their literacy levels. Our reading programmes are for pleasure - allowing kids to choose what they want to read, with the focus being relaxation and enjoyment.

We usually run two Reading Programmes for kids every year, in winter and summer. Kids enrolled in the programme read library books (or have library books read to them) which can be either physical copies of books or from our digital library. They can record their reading progress in booklets which are provided when signing up to the programme. Next step is to bring your kids to the library to talk with a member of staff about the books they have been reading. 

This is a great opportunity for kids to talk about books they’ve enjoyed and get suggestions by a librarian on new books and subjects. They will also receive entries for incentive prizes for every hour they have been reading. There are also other reading related activities on our website and in the reading booklet which they can complete to qualify for a certificate, book prize and to attend the finale event. 

Our final event usually has fantastic activities, games, storytellers and entertainers and everyone is welcome to attend these events. 

Previous Reading Programmes

Navigating the Stars – Whakatere i ngaa Whetuu

Our 2024 Winter Reading Program involved the whole whaanau. Children participated by reading and completing activities on a game board, while adults and teens joined the challenge on Beanstack. Winners received Matariki-themed board games.

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One World, Many Stories

Our 2023 Summer Reading Programme was "One World, Many Stories." Our libraries transported you around the world without having to leave Hamilton.

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Out and About in Hamilton!

Our summer reading programme for 2022 was all about summer fun in Kirikiriroa!

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