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National Year of Reading

National Year of Reading 2008

Do you know anyone who says they don't like reading?

Really it's like saying you don't like seeing, or smelling. It's something you can't help doing every time you open your eyes. You read cereal packets, road signs, newspapers headlines, notice boards, shop windows - and that's all before you even get to work or school. Imagine what it would be like if you couldn't read - it would be like missing one of your senses. Those who can't read - or can't read very well - are at a serious disadvantage in our society. Reading is incredibly important.

Here, in Libraries, Museums and Arts we want to bring the importance of reading sharply into focus. We are planning to put on an exciting programme of projects and events which will reflect the themes of NYR and will reach out to everyone. We started the year off with a fines amnesty. Among other things we will be supporting free libraries in train stations and pubs, running competitions, workshops, author events, and a readers' and writers' festival throughout the month of October.

People from a wide range of council departments have already met together to discuss ideas and find how we can introduce the joy of reading in the least likely of places, as well as offering exciting opportunities to those who already know how much pleasure reading can bring. Look out for the NYR logo, look out for words and poetry - you'll be finding them where you'd never expect.

We will be running events at libraries and elsewhere throughout Calderdale, no matter how small or unusual the venue. And everyone can be involved - readers' groups, parent and baby groups, adult learners, teenagers and children, library members and those who haven't yet joined.

We want everyone in Calderdale to be part of National Year of Reading. We want to make the valley buzz with words; on paper, in print, spoken, read aloud, on screen and through the electronic air.

We're starting with the Calderdale Big Read. We want to know Calderdale's favourite novel. You can vote for any book from any time - a book no one else has heard of or a popular favourite - whatever age you are. All entries will be entered into a prize draw and there'll be prizes for each different age group.

There are various themes throughout the year:-

For more information about what's going on for National Year of Reading contact Anna Turner on anna.turner@calderdale.gov.uk.  For information on future events for children and teenagers ring 01422 392638.

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