EVALUATION REPORT 2014 - Summer Reading Club · 2015-05-25 · All participants greeted the...

EVALUATIONREPORT 2014

2 | Summer Reading Club

Libraries are important partners in efforts to help children sustain learning during the summer months by offering programs that continue content and skill learning and

provide motivation to read.

(Institute of Museum and Library Services. (2013) Growing Young Minds: How Museums and Libraries Create Lifelong Learners,

21. Retrieved from http://www.imls.gov/assets/1/AssetManager/GrowingYoungMinds.pdf)

2014 is the fourth year during which the Summer Reading Club

(SRC) has been conducted as a nation-wide program. The

outcomes of the 2014 SRC demonstrate that the program is an

effective means by which to engage children and young people

with literature, literacy and their local library during the Australian

summer holiday period.

With increases being recorded in all measures of the program, this

report provides further analysis of the 2014 activities and makes

several recommendations for implementation of the 2015 SRC

program.

Table 1. Comparison of SRC statistics 2013–2014.

Summer Reading Club 2013 2014 as % increase

Number of participating libraries

Branches 864 1040 20%

Services 264 316 20%

Number of Library Services returning evaluation data 125 170 36%

Number of children registered

Total 34,576 41,589 20%

Online 4,699 6,439 37%

Number of books read 234,468 267,919 14%

SRC website engagement (dashboard, program site & themed/Club site)

No of visits 13,328 13,856 4%

No of views 91,124 129,021 42%

Number of Australian authors and illustrators profi led on SRC website 17 21 24%

Number of sponsors supporting SRC 14 25 79%

Cost of provision of SRC (GST inc) $164,000 $183,000 12%

Funds generated from SRC Merchandise (GST inc) $30,000 $52,000 73%

“Running the SRC in conjunction with our Holiday Fun program aligns with our vision to provide an innovative, entertaining and stimulating program

with a focus on multi-literacy development and the library as a holiday destination.”

Rebecca Cowie, Maitland Library NSW

SRC EXECUTIVE SUMMARYLed by the State Library of Queensland (SLQ), in partnership with

the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA), Libraries

ACT, LINC Tasmania, Northern Territory Library, NSW Public

Libraries Association, Public Libraries Australia, Public Libraries

South Australia, Public Libraries Victoria Network and Public

Libraries Western Australia, the Summer Reading Club Adventure

was delivered nationally from 1 December 2014 to 31 January

2015, both online and in participating public libraries across

Australia. All Australian states and territories participated.

Australian libraries delivering the SRC reported the following key

outcomes:

• An increase in visitations by children and young people,

• An increase in circulation numbers,

• An increase in library use by children and young people,

• The ability to engage with children and young people and

• The ability to motivate children to read and engage with

library collections.

Table 1 compares a range of measures from 2013 to 2014

highlighting signifi cant increases in participation in SRC,

and indicating the success of the program.

Evaluation Report 2014 | 3

BACKGROUNDHOW IS SRC DELIVERED?Engagement with libraries is central

to the SRC program.

Funding contributions from the

ALIA, SLQ and program sponsors

and contributors enables the annual

creation and delivery of a themed

SRC program and resources for use

by public libraries.

Libraries who register their

participation receive access to

downloadable program materials

and ongoing support in the delivery of their SRC programs.

Development of program materials at a national scale minimises

participation costs for public libraries while allowing libraries the

fl exibility to deliver SRC programming that is responsive to their

members’ needs.

During the summer months children and parents participate in

SRC activities and programs across Australia, both online and in

library spaces.

WHAT IS THE SUMMER READING CLUB?The SRC program supports continued development of multi-

literacy skills in children and young people, including reading,

writing, creative arts and multimedia technology skills during

the summer months. The SRC provides themed content and

resources to enable parents, library staff and others to support

the local engagement of children in an enjoyable reading program

during their break from school.

The SRC aims to assist public libraries in stimulating a love of

reading and building a lifelong library habit.

Participation in the SRC allows children and young people the

opportunity to:

• ENGAGE

with libraries and library collections

• DISCOVER

and develop knowledge, understanding and skills related to

the annual SRC theme

• ENJOY

reading books and participating in activities that inspire a love

of reading, literature and the library habit.

This is a great program that libraries can individualize

to suit their own needs. The merchandise is of a high

standard and being able to purchase items individually this year worked well. Keep up the good work. We look

forward to next year!

Angela BaldockThe Hills Shire Library, NSW

2014 THEMEThe theme for 2014 was ADVENTURE. Activities delivered online and in libraries

encouraged children and young people to explore adventure fi ction, a genre of fi ction in

which an adventure, an exciting undertaking involving risk and physical danger, forms the

main storyline.

The Princess Bride by William Goldman, Jules Verne’s Journey to the Centre of the

Earth, Bear Grylls’ Mission Survival titles, the Indiana Jones books by Rob MacGregor

and the Choose Your Own Adventure books are examples of adventure fi ction.

Annually a suite of materials aligned to the theme is produced.

The 2014 SRC merchandise included:

• A2 adventure themed poster

• Bookmarks • Temporary tattoos

• A5 sticker sheets • Keyrings

• Glow in the dark wristbands

• Torch light pens

In addition, a range of free SRC templates,

graphics and promotional materials were available

for download by public libraries to promote the SRC

and to align their programs to the annual theme.

I like having merchandise that has the SRC website on it as it gives kids and parents

something to explore after they leave the library.

Jaz Beer, Libraries ACT

e is produced.

ble

SRC

.


SRC IN LIBRARIESRETURN OF DATA170 Libraries Services reported Program Participation data

= 54% return – an increase of 36% from 2013.

2014 Data Return

28surveys

40surveys

34surveys

37surveys

2surveys

73surveys

1survey

4surveys

The return of data assists in improving the quality of the national

SRC program and ensures that an evidence-based approach to

decision making is used. Feedback from libraries also ensures the

program continues to refl ect the needs of libraries and those of

the children and young people in their communities.

In 2013, 47% of participating library services returned end of

program reporting data. In 2014 the simplifi cation of the collection

of data has seen an 36% increase in return.

The numbers reported in this

document are based on the

fi gures reported by library

services that returned end of

program participation data.

Anecdotal and statistical

information collected through

online and paper based

registration and evaluation

forms, media reporting and

Google website analytics,

have also been used in the

compilation of this report.

Although the return of data is

increasing, it is fair to estimate

that the reach of this program

continues to be greater than

we have been able to measure.

NUMBER OF LIBRARIES PARTICIPATING74% of Australian Public Library branches registered their

participation in the 2014 SRC – an increase of 20% from 2013.

2014 Library Registrations

38%of 231 branches

80%of 263

branches

67%of 129 branches

72%of 322 branches

24%of 33 branches

97%of 368 branches

100%of 9

branches

100%of 47 branches

Figures reported by ALIA state representatives indicate there are

1402 public library branches in operation. In 2013, 50% of Australian

Public Library branches registered their participation in the SRC.

In 2014 316 library services registered

1040 library branches; indicating a 20%

growth in participation.

In 2014 all 21 Indigenous Knowledge

Centres (IKC) in Queensland registered

and received SRC materials. IKC

Coordinators received training on

SRC programming at the 2014

Indigenous Knowledge Centre

Professional Development Workshop,

held in Mackay.

MEDIA COVERAGEThe SRC 2014-2015 program received extensive media coverage

with over 200 mentions in the media with a total estimated

publicity value of $213,240 (ASR). This is a signifi cant increase on

last year.

Coverage reached a cumulative audience of approximately

82,000,000 through a mix of media types including online news

sites, blogs and websites; newspapers; radio; and magazines.

Coverage was largely in Queensland, Victoria and New South

Wales. Approximately 50% of mentions were online and

approximately 40% in newspapers. Online coverage accounted

for 38% of publicity value and newspaper coverage accounted

for 53% of publicity value. This is an outstanding result for

all participating libraries in raising the profi le of the SRC and

prompting participation.

The Summer Reading Club provides an

incentive for children to borrow and keep reading through the

summer school holidays. It also encourages

school-aged children to become members of

the Library.

Janice OatteyYoung Library, NSW

Another big win for me with the SRC launch was the Northwest

Star newspaper did a story prior to launch with a photo of local

children reading. I struggle to get indigenous children to come into

the library so rather than the using a photo with kids that are always photographed, they used a photo that included some indigenous

children that were in at the time. I have seen a marked increase with indigenous children frequenting the library and I am very grateful for

the SRC for helping me to open the door to them.

Julie GuteridgeBob MacDonald Library, QLD

* Data based on total Branches per state reported by ALIA State Contacts via email 2014.


Bentley and Riverton Libraries promoted SRC with

in-house displays and provided the merchandise

purchased as incentives and prizes throughout

January. The SRC website was promoted and

explained at the launch and children were encouraged

to register online.

At Riverton, the ‘Adventure’ theme was explored

through the world of Vikings and Moomintrolls.

A dramatic story reading of Moomin and the Great

Treasure Hunt by Tove Jansson was held for the

younger children, with Moomin props, games and lots

of participation.

Children of all ages attended our SRC launch

presented by staff in Viking costumes promoting

the books by Western Australian author Norman

Jorgensen, The Last Viking and The Last Viking

Returns. James Foley, the illustrator of these books

presented a cartooning workshop, providing another

opportunity to promote our SRC.

The fi nal event included children displaying and

sharing the stories, drawings and crafts they had

made during the holidays as a result of the library

programs.

SRC posters were displayed and the reading and

participation opportunities via the website were

continually referred to during all these events.

All participants greeted the promotional pens,

keyrings, tattoos, stickers and bookmarks with much

enthusiasm.

The Summer Reading Club is a much anticipated part

of the January school holidays at our libraries and

children area always enthusiastic participants.

Sue Brien,

City of Canning Libraries, WA

LIBRARY DISPLAYSLibraries were asked to submit pictures of their displays, along

with a description detailing the time, cost and number of people

used to create their display. The pictures and narratives received

demonstrate the variety of ways the 2014 theme was creatively

interpreted in library spaces across the country, as well as the

fl exible nature of the SRC program.

Nineteen libraries submitted pictures of their Summer Reading

Club displays. Based on the provision of a short narrative, budget,

and creativity the following libraries were awarded prizes:

• 1st Place: Orange City Library, NSW

– awarded $500 Offi ceworks gift card

• 2nd Place: West Coast Community Services Hub, TAS


• 3rd Place: Wodonga Library, VIC


All pictures submitted will be posted to the Summer Reading Club

Program Portal providing display ideas for use and adaptation in

future iterations of the SRC.

The SRC Library Display Competition will be an annual activity that

libraries are invited to participate in as part of their SRC holiday

programming.

MERCHANDISE DISTRIBUTIONDistribution of $52,000 (GST inc) SRC merchandise to

libraries; 881 kits and 976 extra lots of merchandise ordered.

General feedback this year

indicated that libraries were

pleased with the quality and

variety of the 2014 suite of

SRC merchandise.

In the 2013 SRC Program

Evaluation Report it was

recommended that libraries

be given the option to

purchase individual quantities

of merchandise in addition to their kits, to allow them greater

customisation of their reward and incentive programs.

The 2014 iteration of the SRC trialed the option for libraries to

purchase additional merchandise materials for their program.

Libraries who purchased one full kit were able to order additional

merchandise.

A 73% increase in funds generated from the order of SRC

merchandise demonstrates that library response to this option was

extremely favourable. It is recommended that the SRC continue to

offer a variety of merchandise and ordering options to libraries.

ACTIVITIES DELIVERED IN LIBRARIESA range of activities were delivered in libraries, encouraging

children and young people to engage with literature and their

libraries.

Craftmaking, story-telling sessions, end of Club Parties and SRC

Launch Parties continue to be popular activities delivered as part

of SRC library programs. Libraries also reported hosting online

computer programming sessions and author chats.

Libraries across the country reported they were excited to

program their SRCs and holiday programs to the theme of

adventure. Children also reported they enjoyed learning new

things at their libraries.

The following example is representative of how libraries helped

their young patrons engage with the 2014 theme:

We are always excited and pleased to be involved with the Summer Reading Club. It is a great way

to encourage children to continue reading and also visit the library

throughout the holidays in an exciting and fun way.

Julie BaileyBarossa Council Public Libraries, SA


SRC PROGRAM WEBSITEThe SRC website has two separate components to cater to the

different audiences accessing the site:

1. The program information portal;

summerreadingclub.org.au/program-portal/

Housing information relating to libraries and organisations

delivering summer reading clubs. Libraries register their

information, place merchandise orders and download SRC

program resources from this site.

2. The SRC Club or themed activity site;

summerreadingclub.org.au/welcome/

An interactive component of the SRC website for children

and young people created to extend SRC programming into

homes, support connections to literature and provide exposure

to Australian authors and illustrators. This site is updated each

year to align with the annual theme. Libraries are encouraged

to incorporate activities from the SRC Club site into their local

onsite programming.

Google Analytics Terms

VISIT: any activity on the site during a 30 minute period (session).

A visit is ended after 30 minutes of inactivity.

PAGE VIEWS: the number of times a page is viewed. All traffi c is

captured; deliberate use of the site, if a user refreshes the page,

navigates away from the page and then returns or accidently lands

on the site and leaves.

SRC PROGRAM SITE USAGEGoogle Analytics is used to measure the traffi c to the SRC

Program site. Statistics received this year indicate that the

Program site is being accessed throughout the year.

Google Analytics tracked 5,209 visits and 36,634 page views from

1 February 2014 through 31 January 2015. Spikes in traffi c appear

in July and in October. This is attributed to libraries utilising the

program site to order merchandise and download themed SRC

resources.

The Resources, Home page, Register/Order and Information

for Parents and Carers pages of the program site are the most

frequently visited pages of the program site. These behaviours

indicate that the SRC Program site continues to be a valued

component of the SRC program.

We have been particularly impressed by the quality of website organisation and ease of use, and the relevant

merchandise items available at a reasonable cost.

Sue BrienCity of Canning Library Service, WA


PUBLIC PARTICIPATION/ENGAGEMENTThe following measures are used to monitor public participation/

engagement with the SRC:

• Participant registrations

• Numbers of books read

• Online participation

• Author/illustrator

engagement

• Sponsorship

• Prizes

This year data collected

indicates that the SRC

continues to be a welcomed

program in libraries and

online during the summer

months. The data also

suggests that as the

program continues to be

delivered annually its reach is extending across the country and

is creating a community that Club Members and participating

libraries look forward to engaging with each year.

PARTICIPANT REGISTRATIONS (CLUB MEMBERS)41,589 children registered in the program; 6439 registered

online; a 20% increase in total registrations from 2013.

The increase in participation continues to demonstrate that

signifi cant numbers of children are engaging in SRC programming,

online and in libraries across the country during the summer months.

This data is based on a 54% return of data by libraries. Extrapolating

this data to a 100% return estimates registration numbers would be

closer to 77,000.

BOOKS READAn estimated 267,919 books were read across Australia;

a 14% increase from 2013.

This is the actual count based on the data returned from 54%

of library services. Estimating the data based on a 100% return

estimates the tally of actual books read to be closer to 496,146.

This signifi cant fi gure demonstrates that recreational reading is

occurring across the country during the summer months and

supports a key driver for delivering SRCs in public libraries;

sustained reading and ongoing literacy development during the

summer months.

In addition, 31% of libraries reported that 4,055 hours of reading

occurred this summer. This alternate measure is used by children

who may invest multiple hours reading one book, in lieu of only

logging completed books read over the summer. This allows

children who read slower or who chose to read more challenging

titles feel a sense of accomplishment when measuring their hours

read against other children who may log the completion of multiple

books within the same time.

Dear SRC Team,

This was my first time doing the SRC and I really loved it!

Thank you SRC! I liked reading a bunch of books and being

able to go to the library and get prizes. I also liked that my older sister read more to me and she

even read some books with me. I loved reading over the

summer holidays and can’t wait until the next summer holidays

so I can do it all again!

Sofia, 7 SA

I have borrowed and read so many books this year. I am going to register every year because every time I do it, I just improve better in my reading, writing, spelling and grammar.

Thank you so much and I’m looking forward to doing the SRC next year too.

Juana, 11 NSW

267, 919

* Based on actual data received from 54% of libraries. Extrapolating

date to all participating libraries leads to much higher estimates of

participants and books read.

*

*


Responses to Online Competitions1950 responses to online competitions were received;

equating to a 300% increase in participation.

2013 2014

Responses to online activities 473 1950

Blog Comments 113 640

Book Raves 87 305

Writing Competitions 114 284

Quizzes N/A 481

Gallery Posts 101 195

Have Your Say Comments 58 45

The 2013 online engagement and participation data indicated that

Club Members were primarily visiting the Club site to post Book

Raves, pictures to the SRC Gallery and to participate in the online

competitions.

To increase usability of the site, the structure of the website was

modifi ed to allow Club Members direct, one-click access to the

Book Raves, Competitions and Gallery pages of the website by

moving these items to primary navigation tabs of the themed

website.

A 250% increase in Book Rave submissions and 300% increase in

online activities indicates that these modifi cations to the website to

increase usability and access to the content were effective.

New activities included a What’s Happening in Your Library blog,

which allowed Club Members to comment on what they were

doing in their local libraries and two scavenger hunt quizzes. The

posting of pictures of prize packs for each online competition may

have also contributed to increased participation.

In addition to these changes all online forms were modifi ed

to ensure that the SRC website continues to be a safe online

environment for children.

ONLINE PARTICIPATIONWebsite Visits8,647 website visits and 92,387 page views on the

SRC website (Club site)

summerreadingclub.org.au/theclub

This increase may be attributed to:

• Improvements to the website template

• Integration of User Specifi c profi les

• Simplifi cation of Club Member submission uploads

• Paring back of online content and activities

• Displaying pictures of prize packs on offer

• Ensuring website is compliant with online child safety laws

• Creating a space where children have a voice

Implementing a major change, the Club site moved from a

centralised structure to one that was user-centric and targeted.

Navigation tabs and menus were refi ned to encourage program

participants to more readily access the activities and information

pertinent to their targeted age group or interest:

• Preschool (Preschool –

5 years old)

• Primary (6–11 years old)

• Secondary (12 years old

and above)

• Competitions

• Book Raves

• Gallery

Content on the Club site

website was pared back, and the overall visual look of the site was

enhanced by adding animations, widgets, and images.

Uploading content to the site was also simplifi ed. Participants

were able to upload posts using the Postbox form, and were given

the opportunity to comment on each other’s posts, contributing to

the growing online SRC community.

Of the 8,647 visits to the themed site, trends indicate that 37%

of users accessed the site using mobile devices. Data collected

shows the top 3 mobile devices used to access the SRC themed

site were iPad, iPhone, and Samsung Galaxy.

The 2014 Google Analytics engagement measures such as Time on

Page, Bounce Rate, Pages/Session and Average Session Duration

truly gauge the level of success that has occurred. These metrics

indicate a high level of interest and involvement with the site.

A low overall bounce rate (–30%) in 2014 indicates that the site is

meeting users’ expectations. Users are reaching the content that

is of interest to them, their expectations are being met, and they

are remaining on the site and engaging in the online activities.

It is recommended that the Club site continue to integrate more

customised, targeted content in future iterations of the program.

Continuation of the user-centric development approach will also

support an ongoing evolving user experience for national SRC

program participants.

Google Analytics Terms

VISIT: any activity on the site during a 30 minute period (session).

A visit is ended after 30 minutes of inactivity.

PAGE VIEWS: the number of times a page is viewed. All traffi c is

captured; deliberate use of the site, if a user refreshes the page,

navigates away from the page and then returns or accidently lands

on the site and leaves.

TIME ON PAGE: This refers to the amount of time a visitor spent on

a specifi c page before moving on to the next page or leaving your

site altogether.

BOUNCE RATE: is given as a percentage, and represents the

number of visits when users leave your site after just one page;

regardless of how they got to your site or how long they stayed

on that page. Bounces are always one page sessions.

PAGES PER SESSION: Represents the average number of

Page views during the course of a Visit/Session.

AVERAGE SESSION DURATION: total duration of all sessions

(in seconds) / number of sessions.

The Summer Reading Club is an excellent way to end and

start the year.

I always love reading books and I think that the Summer Reading

Club is BY FAR THE BEST computer program. I love all the

activities and I am happy I joined.

Rose, 9 QLD


SPONSORS/PRIZESSponsorship received from 25 organisations; including 12

major publishing houses.

In 2014, 8 mini iPads, 38 online subscriptions and over 800 books,

comics and magazines were donated to the SRC. The generosity,

support and in-kind donations received from our sponsors enabled

the SRC to mail out over 400 prize packs to children across the

country, in response to participation in the online SRC competitions.

AUTHOR/ILLUSTRATOR ENGAGEMENT

Blogs, story writing starters, Guest Author profi les, and Guest

Author New Book—Sneak Peak chapter previews were

contributed to the themed website this year by participating

Australian authors and illustrators.

Based on feedback received

in 2013, a change to the model

of engaging creative talent for

the website was implemented.

Considering the reach of the

SRC, it was proposed that the

SRC could be a great way for

new and current Australian

authors and illustrators to

engage with their target market

by exploring the feasibility of

Children’s and YA authors and

illustrators contributing their

creative talents to the SRC as

in-kind donations.

An expression of interest was

circulated to invite Australian

children’s and YA authors and

illustrators, who had published

a new title in 2014, had the

capacity to provide a chapter

preview of their work, and who’s

work aligned with the 2014

theme to be profi led on the SRC

website.

The response was

overwhelmingly positive. Over

30 expressions of interest were

received. As a result, the SRC

was able to profi le 21 authors

and illustrators, providing 24%

increased exposure of current

talent to children and young

people across Australia.

Monies historically budgeted

for use in contracting authors

and illustrators were used to

purchase prize packs for the

online competitions.

Dear SRC Team,

I have really enjoyed the Summer Reading Club and reading your blogs over the

summer holidays. I have really enjoyed the chance to read for fun and not just for school. I

enjoyed reading thicker books over these summer holidays and

being given the chance to get to know characters and settings better. Before, I had only read

one Harry Potter book and watched each of the movies but over the summer holidays I was

so interested and fascinated to read all of the Harry Potter

books. I also really enjoyed being introduced to the authors that also posted blogs – George Ivanoff and Sherryl Clark. I was only able to read one book from each author because their books were unavailable or all borrowed

at my library. I really enjoyed how they shared their writing

tips and ideas and I loved seeing those when I read their books.

Thank you Summer Reading Club for the chance to read and

talk about books and how to write them. I hope to be able to join the Summer Reading Club over the next summer holidays. I am already counting down the

months!

Bianca, 10 SA

* 2014 new publishing companies offering their support of the SRC.


2014 PROGRAM EVALUATION

EXPENDITUREThe 2014 SRC budget was acquitted as follows:

2014 Budget (GST exc) $183,000

ALIA contribution $25,000

SLQ contribution (est.) $111,000

Merchandise revenue $47,000

Expenditure (GST exc) $183,000

SLQ operational costs (est.)

(SLQ–SRC Coordinator, SLQ Graphic Design,

SLQ Web Services support) $86,000

Merchandise production and distribution $63,133

Website development $15,078

Graphic design $6,000

Creative content (online activities) $5,760

Prizes $5,529

Postage and materials $1,500

Monies derived from the sale of Merchandise Kits are used to

offset merchandise production, distribution and postage and

handling.

Libraries were asked to contribute $49.50 (GST exc) per

merchandise kit required for their program. The actual cost price

per kit was $51.46 (GST exc) + postage.

In 2014, 65% of the SRC budget (excluding SRC Project Team

costs) was allocated to the production of merchandise and

distribution costs, including postage and handling. Merchandise

revenue offset 74% of these costs.

As the intent of the SRC is to keep costs to libraries at a minimum,

merchandise pricing will be assessed annually to remain cost

effective, while being inclusive of costs associated with production

and distribution.

The 2014 SRC statistics are based on information collected

from online forms, Google Analytics, data received from 54% of

participating library services and feedback collected from libraries

and participants.

Overall data continues to validate the merit of a national summer

reading program. This summary is provided to highlight key

achievements and note recommendations for improvements in

future iterations of the SRC.

BUDGETThe 2014 SRC operated to a budget of $97,000.

The SRC budget is comprised of contributions from ALIA, SLQ

and merchandise revenue.

SRC expenditure in 2014 totalled $97,000, not including SLQ

operational costs. The actual outlay to deliver the SRC is estimated

to be $183,000 (GST exc) including a dedicated salary.

SLQ allocates a budget of $25,000 towards SRC program

expenditure plus salary and associated

costs for a dedicated resource to

coordinate the delivery of the national

SRC and internal SLQ marketing,

communications and web services

support.

In 2013 ALIA committed to provide

$25,000 (GST exc) annually in support

of the continued delivery of the 2013, 2014 and 2015 iterations of

the SRC. This contribution is comprised of donations made by

Libraries ACT, LINC Tasmania, Northern Territory Library, NSW

Public Libraries Association, Public Libraries Australia, Public

Libraries South Australia, Public Libraries Victoria Network and

Public Libraries Western Australia.

In 2014, Western Australia, the Northern Territory and Public Libraries

Australia (PLA) contributed to the ALIA contribution for the fi rst time.

2014 ALIA Contribution (TOTAL) $25,000

ALIA $1,000

PLA $1,000

ACT $483

NSW $9,246

NT $299

SA $2,093

TAS $644

VIC $7,130

WA $3,105

PLA are very pleased to support

the programme along with the other

associations.

Regards, Paul Nielsen (PLA Board)

The whole program presents very well; good graphics, attractive prizes, great online presence and use of games and social interaction. It was a great program to join into for the summer break and we hope to make more use of

it next year.

Vanessa Murphy, Kalamunda Library WA


SRC DATA TRENDSOverall the data below refl ects a postive trend and substantiates the ongoing merit of a nationally sponsored and managed

Summer Reading Club program:

Library Participation20% increase in Library Participation 36% of participating libraries return evaluation data

0

200

400

600

800

1,000

1,2002013

2014

BranchesServices

264316

864

1040

0

50

100

150

2002013

2014

Library services returning data

125

170

Club Member Participation20% increase in total Club Member registrations;

37% increase in online Club Member registrations

14% increase in books reported read during SRC

0

10000

20000

30000

40000

500002013

2014

OnlineTotal Registrations

34,576

41,589

4,6996,439

0

50,000

100,000

150,000

200,000

250,000

300,0002013

2014

Books Read

234,468

267,919

SRC Website Engagement4% increase in site visits; 42% increase in site views 300% increase in online participation

0

30,000

60,000

90,000

120,000

150,0002013

2014

No of viewsNo of visits

13,328 13,856

91,124

129,021

0

500

1,000

1,500

2,0002013

2014

Online Participation (posts)

473

1950

External interest in SRC24% more Australian authors and illustrators profi led in the SRC program; 79% increase in sponsors

0

5

10

15

20

252013

2014

SponsorsAuthors and Illustrators

17

21

14

25


2014 OUTCOMESI was surprised at how much the Summer Reading Club motivated my one (who had finished prep at the time)

to practice their reading over the holidays. I only had to suggest they read me another book to add to their list

most days and they gladly went and grabbed another book or two. They’ve already gotten acknowledgment for their

reading skills in the classroom and now back in year 1, I told them all the reading practice they’d done on the holidays

was really showing. Looking forward to next summer’s SRC!

Felicity, SRC Parent, Mount Isa City Library, QLD

5. Reading sustained through SRC participation in summer Holidays

Data collected through

surveys to libraries and

children indicates that

the SRC is an effective

program for sustaining

and encouraging reading

during the summer

holidays. Children

and young people

have expressed their

enjoyment of reading as

a direct result of their

participation in the SRC.

Parents and caregivers

also report an increase

in recreational reading by

their children during the

summer months as they

participate the SRC.

The data collected this year indicates a statistically signifi cant

increase in all aspects of the SRC program, indicating that the

SRC continues to be a viable and valued program in libraries,

communities and homes across Australia. The positive

feedback and increased participation also demonstrates that the

implementation of recommendations received in 2013 have been

benefi cial to the program.

In summary, the major accomplishments achieved by the 2014

SRC program, adventure are:

1. Improved national presenceNational registrations

from libraries

increased by 25%.

With the addition of

76 Western Australian

libraries registering

their participation, the

SRC is authentically

an Australian literacy

program. ALIA

contributions from Public

Libraries Australia,

Public Libraries Western

Australia and the

Northern Territory also

support and sustain the

SRC as a national program.

2. Better use of fundingThe sale of extra merchandise and better allocation of budget

resources has enabled the program to have a greater reach.

Changing the model for engaging Australian authors and

illustrators allowed the SRC to offer substantial prizes to children

and young people participating in SRC online activities.

3. Better picture of SRC program reachHistorically low, the return of program participation data from

libraries increased by 36%.

The increase of returned data assisted in better

quantifying the actual reach of the SRC.

4. Increased engagement with childrenData collected online and in participating libraries continues to

demonstrate that the SRC is an effective program for engaging

with children and young people. Participation in the SRC, both

online and in libraries refl ects

positive growth. Feedback

posted to the website by children

and young people strongly

attests that the SRC, both online

and at their local libraries is

something they look forward to

participating in each year.

WA no longer runs the Premier’s Summer Reading Challenge and local children value the SRC as

an opportunity to be encouraged to read, the varied options to

participate at a level that suits their family, and the libraries’ provision of events at which they can share their experiences with reading and creative expression. Thanks to all

concerned with SRC with our hope that it may continue!

Sue BrienCity of Canning Library Service, WA

I just love the Summer Reading Club, it’s a good excuse to get my mum to bring me to the library to read heaps of good books!

Vinh-Son, 7 NSW

It’s Booktastic!

The Summer Reading Club has become motivation for people like me to read

more often, especially during the holidays and is an absolutely booktastic

way to keep us aware of all the wonderful books and literature there is

out there waiting to be read.

I sincerely thank you for reminding me and other kids how much we love books

and prizes!

It is just great that you encouraging us to become better readers, thinkers and learners through our time spent

reading.

The rewards are awesome and I can’t wait to do it again next year!

Olivia, 13 NSW

My son has just completed the log card and received his challenge reward as well as 4th reward from the log. We had fun getting him to write the books’ titles on the log himself. He’s only about to attend Kindie next year so it

took him twice as long to write what we adults usually take for granted. We’ve had a very good and meaningful time

participating in the SRC. Let’s hope it’s an annual event so my next son (who’s only 4 years old now) and daughter

(3 years old) can follow suit in the years to come.

Cindy, SRC Parent, Castle Hill Library, NSW


RECOMMENDATIONSTo provide resources and value to public libraries across Australia

and their young patrons, the SRC is committed to a process of

continuous improvement which involves evaluating feedback from

all available sources.

In 2015 enhancements to the SRC program will be based on the

following recommendations:

1. Work with State and Public Library ALIA representatives and

others to encourage increased participation in the program

nationally.

2. Further refi ne user experience

of the SRC Program Website to

ensure Program delivery/How To

materials are current and easy to

follow

3. Implement a solution to facilitate

the sharing of programming ideas

and resources between libraries.

4 Explore options and prepare

proposal for SRC website upgrade

to ensure:

• the SRC Club website remains a safe and engaging online

space for children, young people and their families,

• is accessible to children, young people and their families,

• implements evidence-based best practice and user

feedback,

• encourages greater participation by enabling children to log

books read directly to the website and

• Centralises the collection of library evaluation data i.e. books

read, participants registered etc.

5. Release programming themes for 2016, 2017 and 2018.

6. Explore a sponsorship model for the SRC to engage the

support of corporate and educational organisations for

funding continued SRC program delivery, prizes and website

development.

6. Improved web presenceAccess to the themed

website by 31 October

2014, one month earlier

than previous years,

enabled libraries to

familiarise themselves with

the site and incorporate

online activities into their

programs.

Website modifi cations and

compliance to online child

safety legislation ensures

that the SRC website is

a safe space for children.

Full moderation of content

posted to the site also

contributes to its ongoing

compliance with child

safety law. Data collected in 2014 refl ects positive trends in online

participation, suggesting that the SRC website is a safe space

that children want to engage with and that activities on the site are

reaching the targeted audience.

7. Improved merchandising arrangementsThe option to purchase individual quantities of merchandise in

addition to the base SRC kit was overwhelmingly positive. Library

response to this trial supports the ability to offer additional ‘add-

on’ quality merchandise items to libraries, at cost effective prices.

The outsourcing of packing and distribution of merchandise

continues to prove to be highly effi cient, cost effective and allows

better allocation of staff time in delivery and support of SRC.

Libraries received all merchandise materials by 31 October 2014.

Earlier delivery assists with library planning and preparation for

onsite SRC programs.

8. Increased donations from new and continuing sponsors

A 30% increase in donations received

from sponsors indicates there is value

in contributing to and supporting

the SRC. Receipt of interest

from new sponsors affi rms

that the SRC is becoming

recognised as a national

program with merit.

I really enjoyed the Summer Reading Club.

It was the first time that I have done it and I really loved it. It was cool being able to fill up

bookmarks and go to the library and get prizes.

I also really liked going on the internet to do the other

competitions. I liked the writing competitions so it wasn’t all about reading over the summer holidays.

Thank you Summer Reading Club!

I had a great time and can’t wait to do this all again next time!

Sofia, 7 SA

Highlight of my Year!

The SRC is a great opportunity to expand my reading and achieve goals.

It is a favourite part of my summer holidays and one I look forward to every year.

Bianca, 11 NSW

© State Library of Queensland 2015

The text of this report is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution

3.0 Australia licence. You are free to copy, communicate and adapt this

work, so long as you attribute State Library of Queensland.

For more information see http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/au

Questions pertaining to the content in this report

can be directed to [email protected].

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