National Year of Reading 2026

In you're into it, read into it.

National Year of Reading black logo

Solihull Libraries are celebrating The National Year of Reading, which is the biggest campaign in a generation designed to help more people (re)discover the joy of reading.

Many people want to read more but need a little motivation and encouragement.

Throughout the year we will be launching some new initiatives, hosting events and really focusing on books and reading.

We'd love you to join the library if you haven't already and encourage friends and family to join. 

What we have planned and how you can get involved

Book Bingo

Poster for book bingo of a bingo card on a purple background

Join us this year for the National Year of Reading and be part of our reading challenge for adults. You could even do the challenge alongside family members, friends, colleagues or book club members.

The challenge runs from 23 April to 5 December 2026.

How can I join in?

If you're already a library member, we've made it easy to join the challenge online where you can record your progress.

You can also join in person by asking a member of staff in any of our libraries. They'll sign you up and give you the details of the Book Bingo challenge to take away with you.

How does it work?

You work through the challenges in any order and can read physical books or use BorrowBox to access eBooks and eAudiobooks free with your library card.

When you complete one of the challenges, you cross it off and record your progress by logging into your account and updating by selecting ‘Reading Challenge’ on the dashboard. You can also ask a member of staff to do this for you in the library.

What happens when I complete the challenge?

The satisfaction of reaching your target, and you can get a certificate from your local Solihull library.

Summer Reading Challenge 2026: Read to the beat

This summer, children are invited to read and take part in fun, bookrelated activities at Solihull Libraries. For more information visit our children’s and young people’s page.

We’ll be adding events and new initiatives as the year goes on, so do keep checking back for updates to discover what’s coming up and how you can take part.