Over the past 25 years, Ms Shay has worked at every library branch across Lake Macquarie in almost every department.

She has been based at Swansea Library since it opened in 2006 - her specialty being children's books.

Ms Shay said she had observed many trends in what children were reading during her time as a librarian.

One of those was the rise of the genre-based novel after the release of the Harry Potter series from 1997 to 2007.

"Once children read those books, they were hungry for more [genre-based novels]," she said.

But the most striking change she had seen during her career was the variety of books now available to children.

"Kids aren't limited to fairies and unicorns any more.

"They're reading loads of non-fiction, how-to guides and history books.

"Reading benefits kids in so many ways - at school and at home - so it's important we encourage it," Ms Shay said.

This is the essence of Lake Macquarie libraries' Summer Reading Program.

Designed to promote reading to children aged 16 and under, the State Library of Queensland-run national program is available at all Lake Macquarie library branches until January 31.

For every 10 books borrowed, each participant receives an entry to win a prize. This year there is an iPad Mini up for grabs.

■ The Summer Reading Program is free. Register at summerreadingclub.com.au or visit your local library.