Young readers across Aberdeen are being invited to put their detective skills to the test as Aberdeen City Libraries launches its annual summer reading challenge, Aberdeen Reads.
Designed to keep children engaged with reading throughout the summer holidays, this year's challenge sees Library Bear put on a detective hat to solve the mystery of a missing book.
A rare and valuable book from the archives of Aberdeen City Libraries has been hidden by a mischievous librarian. Throughout the summer, young readers can help uncover the culprit's identity by logging the books they read. For every 400 books recorded as part of the challenge, a new clue will be revealed, helping Library Bear narrow down a rogue's gallery of suspects.
The challenge is open to children and young people aged 4 to 15. Participants can earn rewards as they reach reading milestones of 2, 4 and 8 books over the summer.
Reading cards are available now from all Aberdeen City Libraries, allowing children to start collecting stamps and tracking their progress.
Councillor Martin Greig, Convener of Aberdeen City Council's Education and Children's Services Committee, said: "This is a fantastic activity for children to get involved in during the summer holidays. The reading challenge helps to develop reading skills and keeps young readers engaged during their time off school. This is a great way to promote the love of books and to encourage the joy of reading."
In addition to the reading challenge, this year's programme will feature a scavenger hunt that was developed by the service’s young Library Champions. Participants can collect a map from their local library, follow a series of clues around Aberdeen city centre, and, once they have solved the mystery, claim a special bookmark from Central Library.
The Aberdeen Reads summer challenge runs until 22 August and encourages children to discover new books and enjoy a summer packed with adventure, mystery and fun.