Maribyrnong young readers shine in national Big Summer Read

Published on 17 April 2026

Maribyrnong’s young readers have delivered an outstanding result in this year’s Big Summer Read, leading the nation in participation and achieving one of the highest reading totals across Australia.

A total of 767 children from across the municipality registered for the program – the highest number of participants of any library service in the country.

Together, they read 12,814 books over the summer period, the second highest total nationally and more than the combined total recorded by participants across Tasmania.

On average, each participant read 16.7 books – the equivalent of finishing a book every four days.

The Big Summer Read is a program developed by Public Libraries Victoria to encourage children to continue reading during the school holidays and prevent the “summer slide”, where reading skills can decline over the break.

This year marked the program’s first national rollout, with 226 library services participating across Australia, including all 50 services in Victoria.

Maribyrnong Libraries’ results significantly exceeded expectations for a service of its size, continuing a strong trend of high participation and engagement from local families.

The program highlights the important role libraries play in supporting literacy, particularly in diverse communities like Maribyrnong, where access to books, programs and welcoming spaces helps children build confidence, connection and a lifelong love of reading.

Award winners were recognised at a special event celebrating the achievements of all participants and the enthusiasm shown by young readers across the City.

Find out more about Maribyrnong Libraries and programs here: www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/library

Maribyrnong News

Stay up-to-date with the latest news by subscribing to our eNews.