World Book Day 2026: A Celebration of Reading
“World Book Day is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate reading at your local library,” said Councillor Ian Cresswell, emphasizing the importance of this annual event.
Scheduled for March 5, 2026, World Book Day aims to inspire a love for reading among children across the UK. This year, Radio 2 presenters will dress up as their favourite literary heroes, adding a festive flair to the celebrations.
In a significant initiative, the Premier League will distribute over 120,000 free books to children in England and Wales. This effort is part of their ongoing commitment to promote literacy through the Premier League Primary Stars programme, which has gifted more than 460,000 free books since its inception in 2017.
Jim Sells, a representative from the Premier League, noted, “Having the opportunity to choose a book of their own can inspire a lifelong love of reading,” highlighting the impact of providing children with access to literature.
Local libraries are also joining the celebration. Worcestershire County Council’s libraries will host various World Book Day themed activities, encouraging community engagement and participation.
St John’s Library has been designated as an official voucher exchange hub for World Book Day, allowing children to redeem their vouchers for books. Additionally, Malvern Library will host a ‘Meet the Author’ event with Daisy Merle on March 4, providing an opportunity for young readers to connect with authors.
On March 5, Redditch & Woodrow Libraries will run a free Storytime and craft session, further enriching the experience for children and families. These events are designed to foster a love for reading and creativity among young participants.
As World Book Day approaches, communities across the UK are preparing to celebrate reading in all its forms, ensuring that children have the resources and encouragement they need to develop their literacy skills.


