Libraries
Where stories and people meet
During the National Year of Reading 2026, public libraries will be at the heart of a national movement. Welcoming new visitors, hosting creative events, and celebrating the joy of reading in every community.
Together, we’re aiming to inspire more people to visit their local library across the UK. This nationwide push will reconnect people with the power of libraries and everything they make possible.
School libraries will be supported as part of the national offer for schools and early years settings.
Why now?
Reading needs your help
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Reading is slipping and the effects are real
Across the UK, children, teenagers and adults are reading less. Families are finding it harder to read together at home, and the communities facing financial pressures are experiencing the steepest decline.
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Passions are the way to bring people back in
People fall back in love with reading when it connects with who they are and what they care about; hobbies, fandoms, local interests. During the National Year of Reading, we’ll be using these passions as the spark that makes reading feel exciting.
We need your support
Libraries have the power to turn this around
Libraries are trusted, local and built for discovery. You offer: free access to stories and information in every format imaginable, welcoming spaces where people feel safe, and the support that helps hesitant readers grow in confidence.
During the National Year of Reading, your work will be central to helping people rediscover reading on their own terms.
Resources
Bring the campaign to life in your library
The National Year of Reading makes it simple to join a national celebration, with free resources, ready-to-run ideas and support for public libraries across the UK.
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Free Public Library toolkit
Download ready-to-use posters, social assets, activity ideas and guidance to help your library make the most of the National Year of Reading.
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How to start a book club
This guide offers step-by-step advice on creating and managing a book club. It covers the benefits, tips for selecting books and icebreakers for your first meeting.
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Book recommendations
Discover booklists full of suggestions to read with your book clubs, and to share with families, teachers and community organisations.
Ideas & inspiration
Ideas you can borrow, adapt and build on
Explore real examples of libraries supporting their communities in creative, practical and inclusive ways.
Use them as inspiration as you plan your own initiatives and activities across 2026.
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Lancashire Libraries partnered with local poet Nathan Parker to deliver creative poetry workshops in high schools
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How Tom Gates got a child with vision impairment hooked on the Summer Reading Challenge
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How can libraries become safe, supportive spaces for teenagers and get more young people through the door?
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How Reading Sparks is inspiring young readers by mixing STEM with creativity and reading
THE READING AGENCY
Supporting libraries during the National Year of Reading
The Reading Agency is a UK charity that inspires social and personal change through the proven power of reading. Across 2026 we’re supporting libraries to bring the National Year of Reading to life.
We are also working with sector partners including Libraries Connected, CILIP, Libraries Rising, the British Library, SLIC and the Welsh Government to support libraries across the UK.
2026 highlights
Key reading moments across 2026 to help you Go All In
These national events make it easy to get involved and ride the wave of increased attention on reading across the country. Plan ahead and get your library involved.
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2–8 February
National Storytelling Week
A joyful celebration of the power of sharing stories. This year's theme for schools is 'Soundtrack your Story’
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5 March
World Book Day
The reading for fun charity, World Book Day inspires children everywhere to enjoy the life-changing benefits of reading for fun.
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23 April
World Book Night
On the UNESCO International Day of the Book, a celebration of reading for adults. Pick up one of this year's Quick Reads.
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1–7 June
Volunteers Week
A week-long celebration and recognition of the incredible impact of volunteering in communities, schools and libraries.
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July–September
Summer Reading Challenge
Partnering with Universal Music Group UK, this year's challenge is themed 'Read to the Beat!'
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10 October
Take 10 to Read
On World Mental Health Day, take 10 minutes to read to relax, boost your mood or escape for a moment.
Events Calendar
Find reading events happening near you
The National Year of Reading will unfold across 2026, packed with opportunities to get the local community involved and through your doors. Find out what’s happening in your area.