Cheshire East Council has officially pledged its support for the National Year of Reading, a UK-wide initiative designed to weave literacy into the fabric of daily life. The “Go All In” campaign, led by the Department for Education and the National Literacy Trust, aims to reverse long-term declines in reading for pleasure by connecting books with existing hobbies like sport, music, and food.
Council leaders formally signed the pledge this month, confirming the borough’s commitment to making reading a social and accessible activity. The initiative moves beyond traditional classroom settings, encouraging residents of all ages to see reading as a tool for opportunity and lifelong learning.
Free books and training for local families
Cheshire East Family Hubs are taking a central role in the rollout, coordinating the Bookstart programme across the borough. This national scheme provides free book packs for every child aged 0–5, helping parents establish reading habits from infancy. To ensure these resources are used effectively, the local Bookstart Lead has completed specialist National Year of Reading Champion Training.
Support is also being tailored for families with specific needs. Hubs are providing dedicated packs for children with additional needs and for those where English is an additional language. These resources are integrated into the Family Hubs’ home learning offer, ensuring that literacy support reaches households directly rather than relying solely on library visits.
Summer Reading Challenge and musical themes
Local libraries are aligning their 2026 programming with the national campaign, specifically through the Summer Reading Challenge. This year’s theme, “Read to the Beat,” merges music and storytelling to engage primary school children during the summer holidays. A mini-challenge is also available to ensure younger siblings can participate.
Beyond the summer peaks, libraries continue to host regular sessions including Baby Bounce, Rhymetime, and Lego Clubs. Councillor Laura Crane, chair of the children and families committee, noted that these spaces provide free, tailored advice for parents, whether they are looking for the right book for a reluctant reader or seeking to strengthen bonds through shared stories.
Outreach to community and faith groups
The campaign extends into the wider community through partnerships with voluntary and faith-sector organisations. Family Hubs are hosting events for groups that run playgroups in churches and community centres, inviting them to become literacy champions. The North Regional Lead for the National Year of Reading has been brought in to support these local groups with resources and guidance.
Information is also being distributed to schools across the borough to help teachers embed reading for pleasure into the daily curriculum. Councillor Nick Mannion, Leader of Cheshire East Council, stated that the goal is to reconnect people with reading as a meaningful and modern activity. By working across libraries, hubs, and schools, the council aims to ensure that every child in the borough has the best possible start in literacy development.
Source: Cheshire East Council
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