Library News |Return to reading this Summer
- justinsayson
- Dec 9
- 3 min read
Why Reading Over the Summer Really Matters
The long summer break is a welcome chance to rest, recharge, and enjoy time with family and friends, but it can also lead to what researchers call the “summer slump” or “summer learning loss.” Studies over many years consistently show that when students stop reading for several weeks, their reading fluency, comprehension, and vocabulary can decline. Even strong readers can lose some of the progress they made during the school year if they take a complete break from reading.
The good news is that regular reading - even 10 to 20 minutes a day - can prevent this learning loss entirely. For younger students, reading over the holidays helps them keep the skills they have worked so hard to build. For older students, the benefits are just as important. Reading widely expands their vocabulary, strengthens comprehension, and deepens their understanding of people, cultures, and world events. It also supports success across all subjects, not just English.
Whether it’s a novel, biography, graphic novel, or an article in a newspaper or magazine on a topic they love, encouraging students to read something they enjoy can make a meaningful difference. A small habit through the holidays helps students return to school confident, prepared, and ready to learn.
If you want to read more about this, click here.
Enjoy Books Anywhere This Summer with ePlatform by Wheelers
While the School Library closes over the summer break, our students still have full access to a wonderful reading resource: ePlatform by Wheelers. The school invests in this service so that all OC and DE students can enjoy a wide range of eBooks and audiobooks from home - anytime, anywhere.
With thousands of titles available, students can borrow instantly, read on their device, or listen on the go. The free ePlatform app works on smartphones, iPads, and other hand-held devices, making it easy to enjoy a good story in the car, at the beach, or while relaxing at home. It’s a great way to keep reading through the holidays, especially when the physical library is closed.
We encourage students and parents to make the most of this valuable resource. A few minutes of reading or listening each day can help maintain skills, grow vocabulary, and keep young minds active over the long break. If you need help accessing or using ePlatform, please contact the library at:
The library will be staffed until 19 December 2025 and will reopen on 5 January 2026, between 8.00 am and 3.30 pm.
ePlatform is open all summer—so your next great read is only a tap away.
Discover Holiday Fun at Your Local Public Library
The summer holidays are a perfect time for families to explore the wonderful programs offered by our public libraries. Moreton Bay Libraries, our closest library network, runs a variety of free activities throughout December 2025— including craft sessions, reading challenges, workshops, tech activities, and special events for children and teens. These programs are a great way to keep young minds engaged, encourage creativity, and continue the love of reading over the break. Families outside the Moreton Bay region are encouraged to check their own local council libraries, as most offer similar holiday programs. A link to the Moreton Bay Libraries School Holiday Program will be included for those who would like to see what’s on offer. Click here for more information.
Especially the Summer Reading Club. There are prizes for kids. Click here.
As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, the Prince of Peace, may His joy fill your homes and His hope refresh your hearts. We pray that this Christmas brings rest, togetherness, and moments of genuine blessing for every family in our school community.
May God’s grace sustain you through the holidays, and may you return renewed and ready for the opportunities of 2026.
Wishing you a joyful Christmas and a safe, restorative break.
Sonja Potgieter
Librarian I sonjapotgieter@acc.edu.au
Happy reading.
Maija Kohler
Teacher Librarian | maijakohler@acc.edu.au