The Reading Agency

"Stories made me stronger." Inspire: Culture, Learning and Libraries #IAmAReader project embarked on a unique journey to explore and celebrate the creativity of reading. They collaborated with six established writers and diverse groups of adult readers, sparking conversations about their reading. The brilliant illustrator Carol Adlam turned these insights into gorgeous illustrations, interpreting what it means to be a reader. What do reading and creativity mean to you? Let us know in the comments which illustrations resonate with you. Read more about reading and creativity in our report: https://lnkd.in/e7qbGsfJ ✨️ Sometimes I forget who are real people and who are characters. Oh - that's him! Oh no - he's dead! Oh no, he's not real! I felt like I knew him. I felt like I saw him in Asda. ✨️ I had a dragon who came to school with me, who made me feel safe. And I found that dragon in stories. ✨️ I see colours and shapes - splashes of light rather than a complete character. ✨️ The more different a book is from reality, the more I enjoy it. Even if it is something set in the real world it can put me in the shoes of someone I could never otherwise relate to. #RebootReading See more in Inspire's virtual exhibition: https://bit.ly/3YXAOzr See more of Carol Adlam's work: https://lnkd.in/erRB8yfy

Calling all Summer Reading Challenge alumni 📢 Did you take part in the #SummerReadingChallenge when you were younger? We want to hear your stories! To celebrate 25 amazing years of the Challenge, we’re collecting memories from those who’ve been part of this journey. 💬 Share your experience by filling out our survey. Help us highlight the positive impact of the Challenge and encourage future generations to get involved. 👉 https://lnkd.in/ej8rNQfm

Kick off your Reading Ahead programme by ordering our materials and resources! We have print packs, top-up resources and incentives to engage and motivate participants every step of the way. Sign up today, order your #ReadingAhead materials and empower young people and adults with our reading challenge. Boost confidence, build skills, and unlock the power of reading. Find out more and get involved: https://lnkd.in/eCSeRCpD

If you're looking to reach new audiences and amplify the reach and impact of your campaigns, then why not sign up to the Reading Partners Showcase for publishers? Learn about the opportunities to reach more people through our extensive library, school and reading group networks. Sign up 👉 https://lnkd.in/epqntQr8

Did you know that reading can be a deeply creative act? The #IAmAReader project, funded by Arts Council England and led by Inspire: Culture, Learning and Libraries, explored this topic. Through a combination of public surveys, group discussions, and creative outputs like commissioned fiction and illustrations, the project aimed to uncover how readers perceive the act of reading and its connection to creativity. We wanted to highlight five ways readers bring stories to life. Do you agree with them? Find out more from our report: https://lnkd.in/e7qbGsfJ #RebootReading

📚 We're hiring! 📚 Are you passionate about inspiring children to read? Join our Skills and Engagement Team and make a real impact! We're seeking an exceptional and proactive project manager to lead the UK's largest children's summer reading initiative - the #SummerReadingChallenge! Apply by 11 September 👉️ https://lnkd.in/dCYqh_US

To recognise the impact libraries have on their communities, on encouraging reading, and the vital role they play in society, The Bookseller has announced the Library of the Year award 📚 Sponsored by DK and delivered with The Reading Agency, the award aims to highlight the innovative work libraries do all over the nation. Find out more 👉️ https://lnkd.in/eTBQaFkr

Do you think reading is a creative act? 📚✨ Inspire: Culture, Learning and Libraries set out to uncover whether people thought reading was creative. It revealed that over 60% of readers believe it is. What do you think? Read our report on the ‘I Am A Reader’ project to find out more: https://lnkd.in/e7qbGsfJ #IAmAReader #RebootReading

Thanks to the 2023 Summer Reading Challenge: 📖 70% of children improved their reading skills 📖 72% felt more confident reading 📖 67% now talk more about what they've been reading The Summer Reading Challenge provides children and families with access to free local activities, events and resources to support them to read more over the holidays. Last year, children enjoyed their reading, developed key skills and confidence, and talked to others about their reading - creating a generation of readers! We're working hard to reach more young people this year, to share the joy of reading and to improve early years literacy skills. Sign your child up to the #SummerReadingChallenge today or share with someone you know. 👉️ https://lnkd.in/eWCy8VQz #MarvellousMakers

Did you know? 22% of young adults find reading difficult. Starting the habit of reading early can make a world of difference. Reading with a parent or caregiver can significantly impact early development, school achievement, and even success later in life. However, our latest research reveals that 1 in 5 adults didn't have this experience growing up. By reading with your children, you’re not just sharing stories—you’re building a foundation for their future and creating a cycle of readers that can last generations. To find out more, head to our website for our latest adult reading research, plus find our in depth family reading focus report for more insight. 📖 https://lnkd.in/eQu2KnJP Let's #RebootReading for future generations.