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Responding to the Challenge in Hertfordshire

John Harris Director of Children, Schools & Families – Hertfordshire County Council

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Hertfordshire County Council

• Two tier authority – covers 10 Districts

• 1 million+ population

• 49 libraries, plus 13 mobiles

• Libraries, Culture & Learning is a portfolio within Children, Schools and Families department

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Hertfordshire Summer Reading Challenge 2009

• 17,027 children started challenge – 20% increase on previous year

• 9,662 children completed challenge – also 20% increase on previous year

• Number of boys completing the challenge rose by 26%

• 706 children joined the library for the first time to take part in the challenge

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Contribution to Strategic Objectives

• Opportunities to work in partnership

• Contribution to key national strategies and agendas

• Incorporate into local strategic planning

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Local partnerships

• Schools

• Extended Schools

• Summer Playschemes

• Children Looked After Team

• Traveller Education team

• Children’s Centres

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National Strategies & Agendas

• Every Child Matters

• Book gifting initiatives

• The Learning Revolution

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Local Strategic Planning

• Golden threads

• Potential to unlock other funding streams

• Focus on outcomes rather than outputs

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Summer Reading Challenge Outcomes

• Enhances reading & communication skills

• Stimulates imagination & creativity

• Increases confidence & self-esteem

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‘It was very good because the reading helps you learn!’ – Freya, 6

‘I think Quest Seekers is brilliant because when I’m

upset I read a book and it makes

my troubles go away.’ – Ella, 7

‘I looked forward to finishing each book and it gave me confidence to talk openly in front of people.’ - Chloe, 8

‘It made me want to read more and made

me proud when I completed it.’ –

James, 10

Quest Seekers made me come to the library more and let me read some brilliant books.’ – Alex, 8

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thank you