Make 2026 your Year of Reading
Wednesday, January 14, 2026
Wakefield Council is supporting the National Year of Reading 2026 with hundreds of events to reconnect people of all ages with reading as something exciting, relevant and enjoyable.
As part of the ‘Go All In’ campaign, the Council is encouraging adults across the district to make a New Year’s resolution to join the library and take part in the new adult reading challenge. People can collect a stamp card from any library and receive rewards for reading books. Once they have read 12 books, they will be entered into a special draw to win book tokens.
The campaign also aims to highlight the benefits of shared reading from an early age. Such as better literacy, communication, conversation and social skills and improved vocabulary.
“Whether it’s a book, comic or online blog, all reading in any format counts. Reading can help you relax, connect with others and help you to discover more about the things you love.
“This campaign and the events we’ll be running across the year are designed to tap into what people already enjoy and show how reading can deepen those passions. Because when reading feels relevant, you’re more likely to make reading part of your everyday life. If you’re into it, read into it!”
Cllr Hannah Appleyard
Cabinet Member for Communities
The National Year of Reading 2026 is a UK-wide campaign designed to inspire more people to make reading a regular part of their lives.
Fewer children, young people and adults are reading for pleasure each year, and many say they don’t feel motivated to read.
When people read less, gaps in confidence, skills and opportunities grow, which effects education, careers and wellbeing.
The Council will be running hundreds of events throughout the year to tap into people’s passions. This will include early years offers such as story time sessions for under-5s. Shared children’s programmes such as the Summer Reading Challenge. Support for less-confident adult readers. Book clubs, reading groups and author events for those who want to expand their reading journey. As well as national, local and community celebration events in libraries, such as World Book Day, World Book Night and more.
As a result, it is hoped more people will choose to read to pursue their interests, express themselves and participate fully in life.
Libraries activity is being delivered in partnership with National Literacy Trust and The Reading Agency. Find out more at https://goallin.org.uk/