What is the National Year of Reading 2026?
In the UK, the campaign led by National Literacy Trust in partnership with the Department for Education will designate 2026 as the National Year of Reading – here.
The aim is to bring reading for pleasure back into the heart of children’s, young peoples’ and even adults’ everyday lives hoping to re-ignite interest and boost enjoyment. – here.
This initiative invites schools, libraries, families, publishers and communities to join forces in making reading not just a task, but a joyful, cultural, shared experience.
How Sweet Cherry Publishing is getting involved –
At Sweet Cherry Publishing, we’re proud to support and actively contribute to the National Year of Reading 2026. Here’s how we’re engaging:
1. Curated reading lists– We’ll create themed reading lists aligned with “Go All In”, showing how reading ties into all kinds of passions (for example: books for kids who love music, fictional stories and mysteries).
2. Community events & partnerships– We’ll host events (in-school readings, library visits, author sessions) and collaborate with schools and libraries so that reading becomes a shared fun social activity that can be done with loved ones and friends!
3. Accessible publishing focus -We have our Every Cherry imprint, this ensures titles are inclusive and help the SEND community and appeal to diverse young readers especially those who might not already see themselves as “readers”. They will be able to become readers with our Symbolised and Easier stories.
4. Digital & interactive content – Recognising that many young people live in digital culture, we’ll produce content (for example, reading challenges, online giveaways and competitions) so that reading feels current and culturally relevant.
5. Recognising reading influencers – We’ll feature stories from young readers, educators, librarians and authors about how reading has impacted them. The idea is to show real voices so other young readers are inspired and motivated.
By doing this, Sweet Cherry is not just supporting a national campaign in name, we’re embedding its aims into our publishing strategy and community outreach. We believe in the power of reading to transform lives, and we’re committed to doing our part to ensure young readers feel seen, supported and excited to open a book!
