The BIG Summer Read

What is the BIG Summer Read?
A statewide initiative supporting children’s literacy in a fun and engaging way.
This program is aimed at addressing an identified phenomenon known as the “summer slide”, which refers to the loss of literacy skills over the summer holidays when children do not read—estimated on average as the equivalent of two to three months of reading proficiency.
Public libraries are in a unique and advantageous position to address the summer slide; studies have found that children who receive and read free books over summer experience the equivalent of attending three years of summer school.
1 December 2022 - 31 January 2023
If you are aged between 0 and 18 years, join our BIG Summer Read for your chance to WIN!
All you need to do is read and log at least ten books using the Beanstack app.
Register and make sure you choose Bayside Library Service as your primary library.
Registrations open on 7 November 2022.
The competition starts on 1 December 2022 and closes on 31 January 2023.
About The Big Summer Read
Starting in December 2022, record your reading and collect incentives along the way. There are competitions to enter and prizes to win. All you need to do is register to join in the fun.
Join – register for the Big Summer Read or download the Beanstack app for Android or iOS or visit your local library
Borrow – read books from home or borrow them from your local library and log them in the Beanstack app or website
Read – read and log at least 10 books over the Summer
Win – great prizes
What are the prizes?
Statewide prizes
Three winners will be drawn randomly from those participants who completed the challenge on Beanstack.
0-8 years: $250 Readings gift voucher
9-12 years: $250 Readings gift voucher
13-18 years: $500 Readings gift voucher
Winners and their nominated Library Service will be notified via email.
View Public Libraries Victoria competition details and FAQs.
Bayside Library Service prizes
Three winners will be drawn randomly from those participants who completed the challenge in line with our terms and conditions.
0-8 years: Photoshoot with Alan Moyle and artwork (8x12 matted fine art print and $100 credit towards additional artwork) valued at $435
9-12 years: Neon Light from Electric Confetti valued at $249
13-18 years: Neon Light from Electric Confetti valued at $249
Looking for something new to read?
Celebrate the end of the BIG Summer Read
Come along to Sandringham Library on Saturday 4 February from 11am - 1pm and celebrate the end of the BIG Summer Read.
Join us as we announce the winners of the Bayside Library Service prize draw.
There'll be something for everyone, including treasures and treats from the Country Women's Association Bayside and a sausage sizzle by the Lions' Club.
Feeling creative? Join us in badge-making, temporary tattoos, plus more!