National Year of Reading
The National Year of Reading is about enjoying reading in ways that work for you.
The theme is Go All In. If you are into it. Read into it.
It is about reading more of what you already love and discovering new interests along the way. That is why we are inviting you to come back and check our monthly themes, and discover more about the things you love to read about.
We are supporting the National Year of Reading by encouraging people to read more for pleasure, through a programme of free author events and themed activities taking place across the county.
What is happening in Kent
Throughout the year, libraries across Kent will be promoting reading for pleasure through:
- monthly reading themes
- library events and reading groups
- free author talks and special events
- book displays and reading lists.
What’s on offer will change each month, giving you new ways to get involved.
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Go All In for National Year of Reading with Kent Libraries and Archives - video transcript
July’s theme is music
Lyrics that stick with us, artists who shape generations and the stories behind the songs we love. Reading lets you explore the meaning, inspiration and culture behind your favourite music.
From July, we will be helping younger readers to turn up the volume on reading with the launch of this year’s Summer Reading Challenge, Read to the Beat! - bringing together storytelling and sound to encourage children to explore reading in a way that feels enjoyable and relevant to them.
Explore our Book of the Month and music themed booklist for younger readers, free to reserve with a child’s library card.
Music and drama
Did you know? Our music and drama Library is one of the largest in the UK. Performance sets can be hired by groups who are registered with the library as society members.
The wide collection includes some of the most iconic classical and modern pieces for choirs and orchestras, as well as covering most of the standard classical repertoire. There are vocal sets with smaller scale part songs and anthems as well as large scale choral works including light opera and musicals, and play sets for loan for up to six months at a time.
Learn more about hiring music and drama sets.
Get involved
There is no right or wrong way to take part in the National Year of Reading.
Why not:
- visit your local library
- join a reading group
- try an eBook, audiobook or eMagazine
- attend a library event or author talk.
Every bit of reading counts.
Look out for National Year of Reading activities
Some library activities are part of the National Year of Reading. These include reading groups, Storytimes and more for all ages.
Look for free author talks and special events for the National Year of Reading.