Oldham residents are being encouraged to fall back in love with reading as 2026 is officially named the National Year of Reading – a nationwide initiative led by The National Literacy Trust to inspire more people to make books part of their everyday lives.
Cllr Peter Dean, Oldham Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure, is calling on people across the borough to make this the year they reconnect with their local library.
Oldham is home to 12 libraries, ranging from the busy and vibrant central library in the Cultural Quarter to community favourites such as the newly‑refurbished Northmoor Library in Coldhurst and Uppermill Library in St Chad’s Gardens.
“There’s something really special about getting lost in a good book, and with 2026 being the National Year of Reading, it’s the perfect time to fall back in love with reading,” said Cllr Dean.
“Our libraries across Oldham are friendly, welcoming places in the heart of our communities. They’re completely free to join and everyone is welcome. So if it’s been a while since your last visit you’re bound to find something new to enjoy.”
Oldham’s central library, which welcomes around 900,000 visitors a year, was highly commended as one of the nation’s best libraries at the British Book Awards last year and was also a finalist in the North England regional category.
For anyone looking to get back into reading, there’s plenty to choose from – books, magazines, newspapers and a range of community groups including Knit and Natter, Chat and Choose, and Brews, Biscuits and Banter. Visitors can also pick up a reading calendar packed with monthly prompts and recommendations from the libraries team.
Those unable to visit in person can access the free digital library, offering eBooks, eAudiobooks, eMagazines and eNewspapers via the Borrowbox app.
Residents can also follow Oldham Libraries on Facebook (@oldhamlibraryservice) and Instagram (@oldham_libraries) for book tips and updates on National Year of Reading events.
The year‑long programme includes author events, World Book Night celebrations, the Summer Reading Challenge, StoryFest and the Greater Manchester Festival of Libraries. Bookings are already open for an afternoon with Adam Farrer, author of Broken Biscuits and Other Male Failures, as part of the Healthy New Year Festival 2026 at 1pm on Friday 23 January.
Families are also invited to Little Reads at Oldham Library at 10am on Friday 30 January to celebrate National Storytelling Week.