Programme unveiled to celebrate reading in County Durham

The scheme, run throughout 2026 in support of the National Year of Reading, will led by Durham County Council.

The programme aims to promote reading across all ages, with events taking place in all 39 of the county’s libraries.

Councillor Karen Allison, cabinet member for leisure, tourism, regeneration and high street, said: "Libraries are where stories and people meet. They are trusted, welcoming spaces and vital to rebuilding a reading culture.

Rhyme Time sessions at Peterlee Library as part of National Storytelling Week (Image: DCC)

"They are part of our county’s essential community infrastructure, so we are delighted to put our support behind this campaign.

"Not only is reading fun, but it boosts wellbeing, creativity and opportunity.

"The National Year of Reading is our chance to bring communities together and help people rediscover the joy of books.

"From hesitant readers to lifelong book lovers, we are inviting everyone to Go All In and make 2026 a year of imagination, connection and joy."

The National Year of Reading is a nationwide campaign led by the Department for Education, the National Literacy Trust, and The Reading Agency.

It puts libraries at the centre of a celebration of stories, creativity and community.

The county’s celebrations began during National Storytelling Week in early February.

A series of story and rhyme time sessions were held across its library network to mark the occasion.

A central event in the programme is the Festival of Local Authors, taking place from February 16 to February 28.

More than 30 events will be held during the fortnight to showcase and support both emerging and established writers from the region.

In July, the county will launch this year’s Summer Reading Challenge under the theme ‘Read to the Beat’.

It will feature music and lyric-inspired activities across libraries and will also tie in with the Durham Brass Festival through special pop-up events.

Further highlights include partnerships with the Durham Book Festival in October, featuring book promotions and displays at Gala Durham and workshops at Clayport Library.

November will see 10 children’s authors and illustrators visit libraries as part of the Northern Children’s Book Festival.

During the pantomime season, cast members from Gala Durham, Consett Empire and Bishop Auckland Town Hall will make surprise appearances at libraries to encourage young people to read.

The year will conclude with the Children’s Winter Mini Challenge—a free, online reading scheme designed to help children maintain their reading habits during the winter months.

Other themed activities will include Elmer Day, Roald Dahl Day and month-long programmes focused on Women’s History Month, Celebrating Men Month, National Crime Reading Month and Local History Month.

For more information about planned activities, visit the Durham County Council website or follow #CountyDurhamLibraries on social media.