Libraries NI Big Summer Read 2026

Every summer, Libraries NI runs a reading challenge that quietly does one of the most useful things imaginable for children: it gives them a reason to visit a library when school is out. The Big Summer Read runs for 66 days across the holidays, and in 2026 the theme is The Story Tree - part of the National Year of Reading across Northern Ireland. It is open to primary school children across every county, which means families in Co. Down can join in at their nearest branch from late June. No cost, no pressure, and a certificate at the end for everyone who takes part.

What to expect

Children collect an Adventure Poster from their local library when they register. Each book they read earns them a leaf on the Story Tree - the goal is 10 books over the 66 days, roughly one every week or so, but children can go at their own pace. There is a stamp booklet to collect: bring it in each time you check out books and staff will add a stamp. At the end of the summer, every child who completes the challenge receives a certificate to mark the achievement.

Individual library branches in Down run their own events and workshops tied into the challenge throughout July and August - storytelling sessions, craft activities, and drop-in reading events. These vary by branch, so it is worth asking your local library what they have planned when you go in to register. Branches across the county include Bangor, Downpatrick, Newtownards, and Newcastle, among others.

Getting there

The Big Summer Read runs at all Libraries NI branches across Co. Down, so getting there depends on which branch is nearest to you. Most Down towns are served by Translink bus routes from Belfast and from each other. Downpatrick is connected by bus from Belfast Europa and from Newcastle; Bangor is on the train line from Belfast Central. Branches in smaller towns are best reached by car. All library buildings have parking nearby. The librariesni.org.uk website has a full branch locator with opening hours.

While you’re in Co. Down

Co. Down stretches from the outskirts of Belfast south to the Mourne Mountains, taking in the drumlin coast of Strangford Lough, Saint Patrick’s historic sites around Downpatrick, and the seaside town of Newcastle at the foot of Slieve Donard. A library visit fits easily into a longer day out in any of these places. There is more to see across Co. Down.

Good to know

• Starts: Saturday 27 June 2026, 10:00am (registration opens at library branches)
• Runs for 66 days throughout the summer holidays
• Free to join - no charge at any stage
• Open to primary school children aged roughly 4 to 12
• Register in person at any Down Libraries NI branch
• Full branch list and event details: librariesni.org.uk/big-summer-read