The National Year of Reading

According to the National Literacy Trust, just one in three children and young people aged eight to 18 said they enjoyed reading in 2025. This is the lowest level since 2005, with a 36% decrease. Only one in five reported reading daily, also the lowest level since the survey began, by nearly 20%.

To bring back the nation’s love of reading, the Department of Education launched a UK-wide initiative, marking 2026 as The National Year of Reading.

The National Year of Reading 2026 aims to encourage more people to make reading a regular part of their lives, and to reconnect reading with everyday culture.

Reading has many benefits; it expands the mind, fuels creativity and builds confidence. However, increasing distractions and reduced free time have contributed to a decline in reading for pleasure across many groups.

The initiative seeks to make reading visible in all areas of life and to remind people that stories, ideas and imagination belong everywhere. The campaign offers resources, activities and events for readers of all ages, encouraging everyone to find books that capture their interest.

As the National Year of Reading 2026 begins, it presents an opportunity for individuals, families and communities to explore reading in new ways. Simple actions, such as revisiting a favourite book, discovering a new author or sharing stories with friends, can help bring reading back into daily life.