National Year of Reading 2026

To make Barking and Dagenham a place where everyone reads, every day, in every space.

If you’re into it, read into it. Everyone knows reading expands worlds, sharpens minds, and fuels creativity. But fewer of us are making time for it.

It’s time for the nation to Go All In.

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.

This year, we're bringing reading closer to culture

In 2026, the National Year of Reading is reconnecting reading with the things that already inspire us – from playlists and football matches to films, food and family time. It’s reading that fits how we live, not the other way around.

Please visit National Year of Reading 2026 website

Throughout the National Year of Reading, Barking and Dagenham will be hosting a wide range of events, activities and celebrations to inspire a love of reading across all age groups.

Please see the exciting events, activities and information for you to enjoy:

The Boathouse Studios Storytelling | Boathouse Studios
Family Hub Storytelling Sessions Group sessions for parent and children - Our Hubs BD
Speech, Language and Communication Section Retelling a story with preschoolers - Activity for 3 year olds - BBC Tiny Happy People
Barking & Dagenham School Improvement Partnership (BDSIP): As part of the National Year of Reading, BDSIP will be hosting an online two-week Reading Festival. Created for educators across LBBD, the festival will offer inspiration, practical ideas, and fresh thinking around reading and literacy. Full details will be revealed here soon: News - BDSIP Look out for the launch announcement
Pen to Print https://pentoprint.org
Libraries Libraries | Libraries | Barking & Dagenham

Check back regularly for more exciting updates and new opportunities to get involved!