People Are Reading Less – But Surrey Libraries Want To Change All That

Published on: 2 Feb, 2026
Updated on: 2 Feb, 2026

Studies have indicated that people are reading less for pleasure – especially younger people – due largely to distractions like social media, lack of time and difficulty focusing.

Surrey Libraries are seeking to address this trend by taking part in the National Year of Reading, a UK-wide campaign designed to inspire more people to discover or rediscover the joy of reading.

Throughout 2026, Surrey Libraries will host a calendar of events and activities. Each month, one of the county’s main libraries will take the lead on a key theme linked to the campaign. And all 52 libraries in Surrey will join in with a host of themed activities and events, workshops, and family-friendly sessions.

The campaign is a Department for Education initiative and led by the National Literacy Trust. The theme is “Go All In” and is being delivered by a group of more than 60 literacy sector charities and partners.

Residents are encouraged to explore their local library where they can join for free if they are not library members already and discover the wide range of books and resources to borrow for free. They can also find out about the range of services available, from free wi-fi and computer access, e-books and audiobooks, e-magazines, digital skills support, and welcoming spaces for learning and wellbeing.

Cllr Denise Turner-Stewart

Denise Turner-Stewart, Surrey County Council Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Customer and Communities, said: “The National Year of Reading is a fantastic opportunity for us all to ‘Go All In’ and celebrate the joy of reading together.

“We will continue to champion our libraries as welcoming, inclusive spaces in the heart of our communities that inspire, connect, and empower people, whether through borrowing a book, joining an event, or learning new digital skills.

“I encourage everyone to visit their local library, take part in the exciting events planned throughout the year and help us make the joy of reading a shared experience across Surrey.”

The monthly schedule includes:

February: Redhill
March: Farnham and Staines
April: Woking
May: Epsom
June: Dorking
July: Camberley
August: Weybridge
September: Godalming
October: Guildford
November: Walton
December: Horley

Volunteers are wanted

Surrey Libraries are asking: Have you thought about volunteering in your local library?

There are many ways to get involved. Volunteering is a good way to learn new skills, meet and connect with different people and make a difference. Some people volunteer for work experience which they can use to find a job. Volunteering can be for just a few hours each week, making it easy to fit around other commitments while still making a meaningful difference in your local community. Find out more about volunteering opportunities here.

Examples of how you can support your library include: