Holiday boredom-beaters : Cumbria County Council

Boredom-beaters for the school holidays are all part of the service at Barrow's branch libraries this summer. The seven Cumbria County Council libraries in the Barrow area are mounting special activities for children during the summer break.

They include a chance to take part in the Reading Maze, the fifth annual Reading Challenge, in which most of Cumbria County Council's public libraries are involved. By accepting the challenge, youngsters aged from four to 12 can enjoy reading for fun and collecting goodies such as stickers, folders, certificates a medal or a door hanger on their way through a reading "maze". The challenge is to read and review six books over at least three visits to the library. Children can also explore the reading maze website and find out about top authors.

For over-sevens there are also story sessions at the libraries during August. Under-sevens can join in Kipper's Capers and simple story and craft sessions featuring the children's favourite storybook dog.

Special cartoon workshops are being held at Barrow, Dalton and Roose libraries on August 26, when children aged eight and over can learn how to create humorous characters with Cumbria author, illustrator and cartoonist Colin Shelbourn.

Places at all events are limited so book early to avoid disappointment Full details and free tickets for all events are available at your local library.