With screens taking a back seat for many families following the social media ban, reading is giving families something new to discover, thanks to the Big Summer Read at Macquarie Regional Libraries.

Running until Saturday 31 January, the Big Summer Read offers families a positive, screen-free way to fill long summer days, build literacy skills and spark imagination.

Designed to keep young minds engaged, curious and entertained over the school holidays, the Big Summer Read is open to children and young people aged 5 to 16 and turns reading into a daily adventure.

Pop into a participating library, collect a reading log, and mark off each day a child reads a book, magazine or graphic novel or listens to an eAudiobook.

Once the log is complete, it’s returned to the library for a prize and an entry into the major prize draw.

For little bookworms aged five and under, Early Literacy Bingo cards are available to encourage playful learning through simple literacy activities.

Completed cards can be handed in for a prize, with entries also going into the big prize draw.

Macquarie Regional Library provides access to print and online resources, free Wi-Fi, welcoming spaces to relax and learn, and the chance to save money by borrowing instead of buying.

Libraries are located at Dubbo, Wellington, Narromine, Coonabarabran, Coolah, Dunedoo, Trangie, Baradine, Mendooran, and Binnaway, making it easy for families right across the region. Narromine Shire Council are on board with the Big Summer Read, encouraging families to pop into the Narromine or Trangie Library,

There's so much to experience at your local library - why not become a member? [IMAGE: Macquarie Regional Library]

Reading ideas for ages 9–12

Macquarie Regional Library's Children and Young People's Officer Suzie recommends theses books:

• The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street (series) – Karina Yan Glaser
• Real Pigeons (series) – Andrew McDonald
• Diary of a Roblox Pro (series) – Ari Avatar
• Better Out Than In – Adam Wallace
• Betty Steady (series) – Nicky Smith-Dale
• You Choose (series) – Brandon Terrell
• Bling Jollygood – Nick Bland
• There’s No Such Book – Jessica Dettmann.

Get reading, get rewarded, and enjoy a Western Plains summer filled with stories.

Remember, libraries are not just about books: most have school holiday activities underway as well as interest groups to suit adults. Join your free local library today.