Why now?

We all know the benefits of reading, but fewer of us are doing it.

Reading expands minds, builds confidence and fuels creativity. Yet with more distractions and less time, reading for pleasure is in decline across many groups.

The National Year of Reading 2026 is here to change that, by reconnecting reading with everyday culture.

It’s not about guilt or obligation; it’s about helping people see that stories, ideas and imagination belong everywhere.

The approach

Bringing reading to culture, not the other way round.

Instead of asking people to “find time to read”, Go All In brings reading to them, through their passions. It’s about showing that reading isn’t a separate world; it’s the heartbeat of culture itself.

Whatever people are into – sport, music, food, gaming, film, fashion, or creativity – we use it to draw them into reading. By starting with passions, not pressure, we can create a stronger, more connected reading culture across the UK.

Impact

Building a legacy that lasts beyond 2026

Cultural shifts take time, which is why we’re setting clear goals to guide our work. Inspiring more people to read, visit libraries, connect through stories and develop a life long love of reading, in all its forms.

One hundred thousand active and motivated volunteers

One million more people actively using libraries

And millions more reading regularly for pleasure

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NATIONAL YEAR OF READING WHAT'S ON.

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