£81 billion a year in lost earnings and welfare spending due to low levels of literacy.
Everything changes when you read.
We’re a UK charity with a mission to empower people of all ages to read.
Help change lives through reading
This year, we’re joining the 2024 Big Give Christmas Challenge and we need your support. Donate to our campaign between 3 and 10 December to have your donation, and your impact, doubled.
Can you help us hit our target and double the impact for adults learning to read?
Our Research
Research and evidence is central to helping us achieve our mission. We speak to people of all ages across the UK to understand how and why they read, the successes and challenges they face and how our work can make a real difference.
1 in 4 children don’t reach the expected level of reading by the age of 11
Featured booklist: Quick Reads 2025
Resources for Librarians
Keisha Jones Takes on the World by Natalie Denny - activity sheets
h2. About _Keisha Jones Takes on the World_ Brimming with ideas and passion, Keisha’s determined to stamp down injustices and stand up for what she…
Relic Hamilton: Genie Hunter by Joseph Coelho - Discussion Guide
Packed with adventure and excitement, brimming with myth and magic, and full of history and heart, _Relic Hamilton: Genie Hunter_ is a delightful read for…
Loki: A Bad God’s Guide series by Louie Stowell - Discussion Guide
The bestselling _Loki: A Bad God’s Guide_ series has been a gift from the old gods for countless children across the country. Now on his…
Chronicles of a Lizard Nobody by Patrick Ness - Discussion Guide
Bursting onto the middle grade scene, Patrick Ness has created an instantly loveable classic in _Chronicles of a Lizard Nobody_. Filled with anarchic, laugh-out-loud humour…
Latest News
Celebrate Your Library: The British Book Awards ‘Library of the Year 2025’ Submissions Are Open!
Libraries are about more than just books. They are vibrant community hubs that transform lives, connect people, and spark our…
The Reading Agency’s ‘Read, Write, Share’ Project Launches in Camden and Islington
Camden and Islington Libraries are set to take part in The Reading Agency’s ambitious four-year reading project aimed at inspiring…
What Reading Animal are You?
Have you ever wondered what animal you would be as a reader? Take our reading quiz to give you an…
Library Facts
Explore key facts about libraries, including the numbers of libraries, the demographics of library users and the outcomes of using libraries.
Reading Facts
We want to create a world where everyone is reading their way to a better life. Explore UK-wide reading statistics and facts.
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