How Reading Sparks is Inspiring Young Readers
What is Reading Sparks?
Reading Sparks is a fun programme that mixes science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM) with creativity and reading. We work with libraries to inspire children to be curious and help them love reading—especially in families who might not always have access to these opportunities.
At the heart of Reading Sparks is the idea that being creative and learning go hand in hand. Whether it’s building, experimenting, or telling stories, our activities help children learn new skills, make connections, and discover exciting ideas—all while having fun!
Recently, we started Phase 2 of Reading Sparks, which focuses on ‘STEM Spotlights’. These are special projects that shine a light on cool areas of STEM. Our first spotlight was robotics and coding, using Lego – specifically, something called Lego Spike Prime.
What is Lego Spike Prime?
Lego Spike Prime is a learning tool that combines Lego bricks with coding. Children get to build their own creations, and then use a simple app to make them move and come to life.
The Lego creations can have motors, sensors, and wires attached to a central Hub. You can build a robot that dances, a weather station, a frog that hops, or even a rhino! The possibilities are endless.
Who took part, and how were libraries chosen?
For Phase 2, we picked six libraries to take part. Each library received four Lego Spike Prime kits. These libraries were chosen because they had already worked with Reading Sparks and had Lego or coding clubs.
In spring 2024, kits were sent to the following libraries, with sessions due to take place over the summer.
- Barnsley
- Calderdale
- Hull
- Oldham
- Warwickshire
- Swindon
Programme Impact
The results from the programme are really exciting. Parents and caregivers who joined the sessions saw a real difference in how their children felt about science and the many ways they can learn outside of school.
- 137 children and teens took part
- 99% of families learned something new about science
- 100% agreed that libraries are great places for family learning
- 100% said they’d love to come again
Expanding Access and Opportunity
Reading Sparks isn’t just about learning—it’s also about offering families a chance to try new activities for free, and many appreciated being able to use technology they wouldn’t usually have access to.
“We often have to go out of town to do activities. This would be wonderful as a regular session as it’s central in Hull. My daughter loved the sessions.”
– Lego Spike Prime participant
“My son learned so much from just one session! Once he got really focused, there was no stopping him. He built on what he already knew and even asked for help when he needed it—which is a big deal for him! He learned new skills while having fun and meeting others.”
– Lego Spike Prime participant
Feedback from Libraries
Library teams saw how well the sessions worked and are excited to keep going!
“We’re really pleased with how the sessions have gone. There’s definitely a demand for more activities like these, especially for Years 6–8. We can’t wait to plan and run more sessions!”
– Hull Culture and Leisure
“It’s been a huge success. We’re applying for funding from the Institute of Physics to buy more Lego Spike sets so we can include even more families. These sessions have shown there’s a real need for science-based activities in our community… We have felt incredibly privileged to have been part of this project and to have inspired so many of our young people through STEM, so thank you!”
– Oldham Libraries
What’s Next?
Reading Sparks has already sparked curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning—but this is just the beginning. We are currently inviting more library services to take part and deliver exciting Lego, robotics and coding sessions of their own. Want to join in? Contact us as [email protected]
All photos from Barnsley Libraries
