HOLSWORTHY Library is amongst those across the UK introducing children to a circus spectacle that will keep them reading throughout the school holidays, with the 'Summer Reading Challenge'.

The Summer Reading Challenge is just one of many exciting schemes public libraries are developing to help children love reading, gaining confidence and new skills.

Each year the Summer Reading Challenge to children is simple. They're encouraged to read six or more books of their choice during the holidays, with collectable incentives and rewards, plus a certificate or medal for every child who completes the challenge. Children can sign up at their local library as the summer term draws to a close and all materials are absolutely free to children.

The 2011 Summer Reading Challenge has a circus theme. Called 'Circus Stars', it owes more to Cirque due Soleil — the new generation of circuses and the performance arts than the old-fashioned big top circus. The Circus Stars razzmatazz starts with six children who have signed up for a contemporary circus skills academy. As they read books, mirrored by children everywhere who are doing the challenge via their local libraries, they gain new circus skills through three important stages: practice, rehearsal and show time!

An interactive Circus Stars (http://www.circus-stars.org.uk">www.circus-stars.org.uk) website was launched at the end of May, linking children with top authors and illustrators, and giving them space to talk about their favourite books and to share reading ideas. Circus Stars also promotes their local library as a place of wonder for children, where librarians can offer them invaluable advice and guidance.

They can also attend a number of themed events at the library.

On Monday, August 8 at 9.30am children aged seven-years-old and over will be able to learn some circus skills, including juggling and spinning plates. Free tickets are obtainable from the library.

The following Monday (August 15) at 2.30pm children aged four-years-old and under will be creating funny clown faces on paper plates.

Children of all ages are also invited to enter a competition (closing date August 13) to design a clown's face on a paper plate which can be collected from the library.