2012 will see a whole heap of amazing, fun, reading activities taking place around Australia and online, so people of all ages, from different backgrounds, can discover and rediscover the joy of reading.

Australian libraries and library associations are behind a campaign to turn 2012 into the National Year of Reading, linking together all the great things that are already happening around books, reading and literacy, and giving them an extra boost, with inspirational programs and events taking place across the country.

City of Ryde libraries will be celebrating with activities and programs throughout the year.

The 366 Day Short Story Challenge

‘They say you should never go back but returning to a childhood home after five decades I am stunned by the expected change.’ - Day 1: Peter Mitchell 'Finding the boy in the man’

The City of Ryde Library has kicked off The National Year of Reading with a story challenge. Stories are coming in thick and fast so don’t miss out.

For your chance to win

Readers will vote for their favourite story each month giving you the chance to win a $40 gift voucher if your story is chosen. The winning stories will also be highlighted on the website and compiled into a booklet at the end of the year.

You can help us reach our target of publishing an original short story (new or old) on our blog each day of 2012. Share your story with others.

• The challenge is open to all ages.
• There is no set theme.
• Stories must be between 200 and 7500 words.
• The story must be entirely your own work.

So far we’ve had over 400 people view our blog, so don’t be left out.

Readers Choice: Vote for your favourite story

For your chance to win a $20 gift voucher vote for your favourite story by emailing rydelibrary@ryde.nsw.gov.au with the name of the story and author as well as your contact details and address.   

How to submit a story

Send your story in Microsoft Word (.doc) or RTF (.rtf) format by email to rydelibrary@ryde.nsw.gov.au. Make sure you include your name and contact details in your email.

Where to read the stories

Each day in 2012 a story will be published on our blog. Read them at rydeyearofreading.blogspot.com

For more information call 9952 8352 or talk to staff at your local library.

Privacy: Only your name and suburb will be displayed along with your story on the blog. For children, only the first name and suburb will be displayed . Your personal information is held by Council and access is restricted to council officers and other authorised people. You may apply to access or amend the information.