Snakes and Ladders, the retro board game of the past, has been steam-punked to create the coolest winter reading programme this century.

Steampunk is a quirky and fun genre of science fiction that features steam-powered technology. It is often set in an alternate, futuristic version of 19th century Victorian England.

Thames-Coromandel District Libraries are turning the popular game of Snakes and Ladders on its head this winter. Image: TCDC

The Thames-Coromandel District libraries programme starts with an open day being held on June 22, beginning at 3pm.

Child and Teen librarian Stephnie Burton just like the original Snakes and Ladders, the first one to the top of the library board game is the winner.

'You can collect your booklet and counter, select a book or two and start playing,” says Stephanie. 'Do any of the tasks from the booklet, show the librarian and get a roll of the dice, read a New Zealand book and get two rolls of the dice.”

Each week there will be a Book Club for children to share their reading, make recommendations and exchange books.

There are prizes at square 25, 50 and 75 as well as the first, second and third place. The more children read, the further they get in the game.

To find out more or to collect your booklet and counter, head in to your local library:

• Thames Library: 503 Mackay Street, Thames. Ph: 07-8680-6616
• Tairua Library: 2 Manaia Road, Tairua. Ph: 07-864-7960
• Mercury Bay Library: 1 Victoria Street, Whitianga. Ph: 07-866-4776