In response to a 36% drop of 8-18 year olds who read for pleasure (National Literacy Trust) the UK has declared 2026 The National Year of Reading. The first Children’s Booker prize will be launched, and free books and library cards are being provided for babies.

Link: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2025/dec/29/the-guardian-view-on-the-national-year-of-reading-2026-time-to-start-a-healthy-habit-for-life