Reading for pleasure is a globally recognised indicator in a huge range of social issues from poverty to mental health, yet in the UK 36% of people don't regularly read.

World Book Night is a national celebration of reading and books which takes place on 23 April every year. Books are given out across the UK with a focus on reaching those who don't regularly read, and are gifted through organisations including prisons, libraries, colleges, hospitals, care homes and homeless shelters, as well as by passionate individuals who give out their own books within their communities.

Organisations across the country also run events to celebrate World Book Night every year. Find out more about this year's events

Get involved

• Sign up to our newsletter to find out the latest about World Book Night
• Take a look at the books donated by publishers for World Book Night 2017

"I'm really pleased that one of my books is to be part of World Book Night. What a great, optimistic, liberating, democratic project. What a wonderful way to celebrate one of humankind's greatest creations. What a truly creative way to encourage people to read one book, then another, then another, to encourage people to become lifelong readers. The Reading Agency and World Book Night are forces for development and change. They really are helping to create a better world."

World Book Night facts

• 23 April is UNESCO International Day of the Book and also Shakespeare's date of birth and death.
• The name took its lead from the well-established and successful children's reading celebration in UK and Ireland called World Book Day.

World Book Night is funded by:
Arts Council England
The Paul Hamlyn Foundation
The Foyle Foundation
John Laing Charitable Trust
And a huge range of private supporters who believe in the value of our work. If you'd like to make a donation visit our JustGiving page