Isle Of Wight Councillor Joins Literacy Leaders To Promote Reading Across UK

Councillor Julie Jones-Evans has added another chapter to her story as the Local Government Association's Library Champion — this time with a visit to 10 Downing Street.

She joined authors and literacy leaders to help turn the page on declining reading habits, as part of the launch of the National Year of Reading 2026, a nationwide campaign encouraging people of all ages to rediscover the joy of reading for pleasure.

The event brought together a cast of literary champions, including bestselling author Cressida Cowell, known for her How to Train Your Dragon series, and Jonathan Douglas, chief executive of the National Literacy Trust.

Also in attendance were representatives from The Reading Agency, the organisation behind the ever-popular Summer Reading Challenge, which inspires thousands of children to keep reading through the school holidays, including on the Isle of Wight.

“It was a real honour to represent the Isle of Wight and local government at such an inspiring event,” said Councillor Jones-Evans.

“Reading for pleasure has so many benefits — from improving mental wellbeing to supporting educational and life outcomes. It’s something we should all be championing.”

The Year of Reading comes at a time when national figures show a worrying trend: only one in three children continue to read for pleasure after leaving primary school, and fewer parents are reading to their children at home.

The campaign aims to reverse this by working with schools, libraries, and community groups to make reading more accessible, enjoyable, and part of everyday life.

“The energy in the room was fantastic,” Councillor Jones-Evans added.

“Everyone there shared a belief that reading can change lives — and not just for children. Whether it’s a gripping novel, a comic book, or a bedtime story, reading opens doors and sparks imagination.”

As the campaign rolls out across the country, local communities are being encouraged to get involved — whether by joining a library, taking part in reading challenges, or simply picking up a book and sharing it with someone else.

Councillor Jones-Evans is also inviting town, parish, and community councils to consider how they can play a part in supporting the National Year of Reading.

Further information about the campaign is available at: https://www.nationalyearofreading.org.uk/ 

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