Summer Reading Boost with ‘Book Buddies’ Programme

Summer Reading Success for Jersey’s Young Bookworms

Jersey Library has celebrated a lively summer of reading, with hundreds of local children inspired to keep turning pages thanks to its holiday challenge and the Book Buddies scheme.

The initiative, supported by additional funding from the Reading Agency, ensured that young readers across the island could stay connected to books throughout the school break.

Children from Samares and Grands Vaux primary schools travelled by minibus each week to the library, where they enjoyed one-to-one sessions with trained volunteers from the charity Every Child Our Future.

Eight-year-old Scarlett, one of the young participants, said her favourite reads were animal fact books. She explained:

“Probably the capybara one I read a few minutes ago. There are loads of different facts about capybaras – sometimes animals eat them, but other times they just hang out with them. That was probably my favourite.”

Scarlett added that reading might help her one day become a vet or even work in a zoo:

“I need to learn different things about animals so I can keep them healthy.”

Chief Librarian Edward Jewell praised the volunteers’ dedication in keeping the sessions engaging.

“Sitting here in a vibrant children’s library has been fantastic,” he said. “Seeing those relationships grow, and watching children continue their reading all summer long, has made a real difference.”

Volunteer Julie Mesny agreed, describing the children’s enthusiasm as “wonderful to witness.”

“The librarians are always on hand to help them choose new books. It’s been amazing seeing them collect their certificates and badges – they love it!”

She added that the scheme is about more than just a summer activity.

“Reading is lifelong learning. If children start early, they’ll enjoy books and share that love with future generations. It’s something they can pass on at home, inspiring brothers and sisters too.”

The success of this year’s Book Buddies shows that, for Jersey’s young readers, the holiday has been anything but quiet.