Communities across Dorset are joining a national campaign in 2026 to encourage more people to read for enjoyment.
Dorset Library Service is working with schools and local groups to support the National Year of Reading, a UK-wide initiative led by the Department for Education and delivered with the National Literacy Trust. The campaign responds to research showing reading for pleasure among young people is at its lowest level in 20 years, with only one in three saying they enjoy it in their free time.
The theme, ‘Go All In’, encourages people to link reading with interests they already have, including sport, music, food and popular culture. Activities across Dorset will include social reading sessions, family events, themed displays, digital clubs and community celebrations, both in libraries and online.
Councillor Ryan Hope said: “Reading has the power to open doors, spark imagination and support wellbeing at every stage of life. The National Year of Reading is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate reading in all its forms.”
Dorset Library Service will continue to provide free access to books, e-books, audiobooks and other resources, with more events set to be announced throughout the year.