Get involved in the National Year of Reading 2026

Reading for fun is at an all-time low; in 2025, only 1 in 3 children and young people said they enjoy reading. Yet reading for pleasure has been shown to help people do better in school, work and life. Reading is not only essential for developing literacy skills, but improves mental wellbeing, develops empathy and helps to connect people.

In 2026, the UK is launching the National Year of Reading, a major project with the Department for Education aiming to bring back a love of reading across the country. There will be a major media campaign including TV ads and celebrity representatives, alongside local community place-based approaches. We are trying to reach and engage as many people as possible, drumming up excitement for reading!

We are looking for people who have a network, run groups or outreach projects, are involved in their local community, involved in sports teams or events with work colleagues who want to promote reading or lead activities relating to reading. You recognise the benefits and want to advocate for those around you, or those you support, to read more!

There is no set way for you and your group to get involved. You could run reading groups, storytelling sessions, book swaps, small community libraries, family reading events, work with schools, libraries or community organisations to spread a love of reading, or something else that inspires you.

This project is flexible and a great opportunity to use creativity and teamwork to help people of all ages enjoy reading in a fun and positive way.

We will support you by offering

• regular check-ins, ongoing support and collaboration with your local NLT project officer
• a starter training session
• a helpful handbook of ideas and guidance
• specialised training sessions throughout the year - for example on theatrical storytelling
• resources including posters and templates to support activities
• a monthly newsletter with news, tips and inspiration
• access to our volunteer portal to track and celebrate what you do
• chances to collaborate with other volunteers in your area
• travel costs covered (as agreed with the NLT project officer)

Please get in touch with Lucy Reeves (project officer for the North East) for more information about the National Year of Reading and how to get involved in this exciting project! [email protected]