BUDDING supermen, spidermen and wonderwomen are being encouraged to summon up their special powers and take part in National Bookstart Week.

Libraries across East Sussex are throwing open their doors to superheroes to encourage young people to enjoy reading during the national campaign which runs from Monday, June 9 to Sunday, June 15.

Regular rhymetime and storytime sessions will take on a superhero theme and those taking part will be given a free copy of a Super Duck by Jez Alborough and activity sheets.

And at Heathfield Library on Monday, June 9 even the library staff will be getting involved by donning their best superhero costumes.

To ensure as many youngsters as possible can take part, East Sussex County Council will be running events in its libraries that hold rhymetime and storytime sessions until Friday, June 20.

“It is important to encourage young children to enjoy books and the superhero theme provides plenty of excitement and fuels the imagination,” said Cllr Chris Dowling, East Sussex County Council’s lead member for community services.

“There are vast benefits to reading books as a family. Research shows that reading together strengthens the family bond and helps children perform better at school.

“I hope as many families as possible come along to one of our free special events and rediscover their love for reading.”

For details of rhymetime and storytime events visit www.eastsussex.gov.uk/libraries/childrenslibrary/whatson