Thirty library services in the north of England are working together to celebrate the Rugby League World Cup 2013, most of which are running our special RLWC2013 edition of the Six Book Challenge. Called Try Reading, the project was launched at Hull Central Library on 9 April, which happens to be where the Six Book Challenge was first run back in 2006.

Hull Try Reading activities

The picture above shows author Tom Palmer with RLWC2013 official mascots Grubber and Steed at the launch. To the left is Tom with Councillor Geraghty, Nelt and Josh Hodgson of Hull Kingston Rovers and their mascot Rufus the Robin plus Grubber and Steed and the World Cup trophy of course!

Over 150 events, including author talks, writing workshops and drama events will take place across the North West, Yorkshire and Humber regions between April and November 2013. Libraries will be working with local clubs and supporters' groups as well as schools and other interested organisations. The project is being funded with an award from the National Lottery supported £6 million Grants for the arts Libraries fund by Arts Council England.

A focus of activity will be the website where readers and sports fans will be encouraged to share book recommendations and their writing during the build-up to this autumn's tournament. First up is a specially-commissioned children's book written by Tom about Grubber called What's a Bear to Wear? Tom will also be running his special rugby reading game at libraries across the north in the coming months and has offered a free event as a prize draw for organisations running the RLWC2013 Six Book Challenge.

Warrington Livewire Try Reading launch

Tom's new rugby story featured again on 10 April when Warrington Livewire launched their Try Reading programme in Warrington with the help of Wolfie the mascot and Warrington Wolves player Ben Harrison, both seen here (left). Nearly 100 people came to hear Ben reading What's a Bear to Wear?, take part in quizzes and games and learn about the fun of reading and rugby league.

One adult visitor said: "It was really enjoyable and good to see a sportsman acting as a role model. Well done Ben." And a child summed it up: "It was cool today. I wish to come here again."

Meanwhile Livewire continue to use our RLWC2013 Six Book Challenge materials in Warrington and have over 100 people signed up to the scheme.

Try Reading in Cumbria

Cumbria Libraries are fully engaged in both Try Reading and the RLWC2013 Six Book Challenge after an event at Workington Library. Workington Town's captain Jarrad Stack and their new signing Kayle Conner (pictured left) came along to read with children and meet families at the library.

Get involved

If you would like to take part in the Rugby League World Cup 2013 Six Book Challenge contact your local public library.

If you work in a library, school, college or work place which is thinking of running the Six Book Challenge in 2013 please consider adding a rugby league element by using our special Rugby League World Cup branded materials. See also Guidance for the Rugby League World Cup 2013 Six Book Challenge which includes information about special prizes on offer for completers and organisations.