Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council has launched a series of initiatives to support the National Year of Reading 2026, including a primary school story writing competition and a free book exchange scheme.
Youngsters across the borough are invited to submit story entries. The winning entries will be read aloud at the annual Snap Dragon Children and Family Festival in August and displayed in Hinckley Library.
Book Exchange Launches at Two Locations
The council has introduced a book exchange scheme at the Hinckley Leisure Centre and The George Ward Centre in Barwell. The scheme allows residents to take a book or leave one without requiring a donation. The exchange will also feature at all council-run events in Hinckley town centre.
Support for Disadvantaged Communities
The wider campaign includes work with local schools, libraries, community groups and voluntary organisations. Cllr Michael Mullaney, Executive Member for Housing and Community Safety, said the council is working to ensure access to reading initiatives for people experiencing homelessness or living in temporary accommodation, as well as both urban and rural communities across the borough.
The Department for Education has designated 2026 as the National Year of Reading, with a focus on improving literacy outcomes for early years children, boys aged 10–16, and disadvantaged communities.
Cllr Robin Webber-Jones, the Borough Council's Children and Young People's Champion, said the council will champion reading across the borough beyond 2026.