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. Jesmond Library volunteers are right behind it. We've planned a year long series of events and activities, from quizzes and fun activities for children to reading challenges for all ages and author showcases.

The Readathon is our most ambitious project involving 96 people of all ages reading aloud for 15 minutes each, continuously for 24 hours. They will be choosing from any book of their choice, on any subject and in any language. The whole event will be livestreamed.

We're hoping friends and families of the brave 96 will sponsor them and support two brilliant charities - the Friends of Jesmond Library and the National Literacy Trust.