"The Summer Reading Club is a great way for kids to maintain their reading levels over the long summer holidays," MidCoast Council's Libraries manager Chris Jones said.

This year's challenge theme is Tales of Wonder and young people and families are encouraged to explore the wonders of stories, from myths and legends to fairytales and real life heroes, by joining the challenge.

The program, for children up to the age of 16 years, is aimed at helping them to maintain reading throughout the summer holidays.

"The benefits of reading are endless and it's hoped that this challenge will encourage some non-readers to pick up a book at home, and others to keep it up over their break," added Chris.

This year the challenge will be run through 'Beanstack', a free online service that offers an innovative way to connect readers of all ages with books, engaging reading activities and challenges.

It includes book and activity logging, badges and registration for all members of the family under one account, or parents can create accounts just for their children.

Thanks to the program partners State Library of Queensland, Mission Australia, MidCoast 4 Kids and Council's Waste Education Team, participants will receive some great prizes as part of the program.

Families are encouraged to head to www.midcoastlibraries.com.au or visit their library for details on how to participate.

The challenge finishes on January 31, 2021.