2026 is the National Year of Reading, inspiring people of all ages to read more.
This year we’re encouraging Islanders to ‘Go All In’ on reading – whether you’re a keen reader already, or you’ve fallen out of the habit.
The Library, the States of Guernsey, the Guernsey Literary Festival, Bright Beginnings and Guernsey Arts are working together to champion reading for pleasure across the island.
2026 is our opportunity to help everyone rediscover the joy of reading.
Go All In
WATCH
Check out the Go All In video to learn more about how you can join the campaign in 2026.
Because you're not really into it until you read into it.
Take 10 to Read
On Thursday 8 October, the National Literacy Trust and the British Council will aim to set a new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title for the most people reading online in 12 hours.
Part of the Take 10 to Read campaign, there will be four online sessions throughout the day with world-renowned authors and influencers, each designed to engage and inspire different age groups. Several local schools will be taking part throughout the day. In the evening, there will be online sessions with popular Booktok readers. There's something for everyone!
Each pre-recorded session lasts no more than an hour and includes a dedicated ten-minute reading session, during which participants will read together. This forms part of the Guinness World Records attempt.
Find details of how to tune in and take part in this reading challenge on the National Literacy Trust website.
Go All In!
Stop, Drop & Read
It was great to see so many people across the community get involved in Stop, Drop & Read!
To celebrate World Book Day and the National Year of Reading, people in Guernsey stopped what they were doing, dropped everything, and read for 15 minutes.
Here in the Library, it was a mindful moment in an otherwise busy and exciting World Book Day.
Thank you to everyone who took the time to pause for a few moments and enjoy reading together.
#StopDropReadGSY
Guernsey Reading Survey
In Guernsey the National Year of Reading is launching with the results of the Guernsey Reading Survey, which show that reading is already at the heart of island life.
More than 6,000 islanders took part, giving us valuable insight into their reading habits.
A big thank you to everyone who took part!
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KEY STATS
39% of children say they read every day or almost every day - notably higher than in the UK, where it's 19%.
64% of adults read regularly - compared to 50% in the UK.
That said, many adults surveyed said that busy routines and day-to-day distractions make it harder to focus, and many would like to read more.
Meanwhile, more than 70% of secondary school children said they don’t often see adults reading.
That's why we're encouraging islanders to Go All In for the National Year of Reading!
Readers Gallery
