Awen Libraries is set to spark the joy of reading with the return of the award-winning 21 Book Challenge, designed specifically for adults. Over 600 people signed up for the inaugural challenge last year, more than double the numbers anticipated.
Running from 1 September 2025 to 31 March 2026, the 21 Book Challenge invites readers across Bridgend County Borough to discover new genres, revisit classic titles and make time for reading in their everyday lives.
This year’s themes include ‘A book set in a country you’ve visited’, ‘A book with a man’s face on the cover’, ‘an autobiography’, ‘a crime novel’ and ‘a history book’ recommended by our Heritage Manager at Awen Cultural Trust’.
Using a 21 Book Challenge bingo-style sheet, participants can record their progress and collect prizes including bespoke pens, bookmarks, tote bags and reading lights after completing 7, 14 and 21 books.
Richard Hughes, Chief Executive at Awen Cultural Trust, the charity which manages libraries in partnership with Bridgend County Borough Council, said:
“As we were named ‘Welsh Library of the Year’ in The British Book Awards 2025, thanks to the success of the first-ever 21 Book Challenge, we are grateful our council colleagues and UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund have enabled it to return.
“Initiatives like the 21 Book Challenge align with Awen’s ongoing efforts to boost literacy levels, reduce social isolation and promote mental wellbeing, all known benefits of reading for pleasure.
“We hope our readers enjoy the new categories that have chosen for them, providing lots of opportunities for people to expand their reading tastes and try something new. If you are not a library member, please call in or visit www.awen-libraries.com.”
Councillor Jane Gebbie, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Social Services, Health and Wellbeing, Councillor Jane Gebbie, said:
“We are delighted to welcome back the 21 Book Challenge this year. Last year’s initiative was hugely popular with local people. Research shows that reading books can offer several health benefits, including strengthening your brain, increasing your ability to empathize, reducing stress, and building your vocabulary. I would encourage as many people as possible to take part in the challenge and enjoy the many benefits that reading a good book has to offer.”
