Lichfield Library hoping lure of Pokemon Go will help attract young readers for summer challenge

Lichfield Library is hoping to use virtual characters to lure young readers.

The site at The Friary is one of a number across Staffordshire trying to capture the imagination of Pokemon Go players.

Gamers are being encouraged to visit the library to take advantage of the free Wi-Fi to catch some of the characters, as well as staging regular Pokemon lures.

Cllr Gill Heath, Staffordshire’s library leader, said: “Libraries have always offered a safe, welcoming environment for families, so where better to let younger children play Pokemon Go – and at the same time encourage them to sign up to the Summer Reading Challenge.”

This year’s reading challenge has a Roald Dahl theme and encourages children to read at least six books during the summer holidays.

Almost 4,000 youngsters across the county have already signed up.

Cllr Heath added: “I’m delighted that so many have signed up so far and that 100 eager beavers have already read their six books and completed the challenge.”