The Liverpool Year of Reading launches this Saturday with commentators in the city maintaining it will be the city’s literacy event of the year.
Joel Jelen, founder of Ubiquity PR and head of communications for the Lord Mayor of Liverpool, will launch the event and he says “It promises to be a lively afternoon featuring writers, readers, families, publishers, performers and community organisations all coming together to celebrate books, creativity and the power of storytelling.”
Being held from 12pm – 3pm at Central Library in William Brown Street, the inclusive launch will also welcome lifelong book lovers, aspiring writers, parents looking for a lovely day out, and those simply curious about what Liverpool’s reading scene has to offer.
Spearheaded by The Lord Mayor Of Liverpool Cllr Barbara Murray and Liverpool Literacy Cycle, the event represents a vibrant, welcoming space where people can discover new voices, meet local talent, and take part in activities that celebrate reading in all its forms.
Activities include:
- Authors and writers sharing their work and experiences
- Book readings to enjoy live storytelling and powerful extracts
- Books for sale, perfect for finding your next favourite read
- Panel discussions exploring ideas, writing, literature and community
- Reading activities for all ages and abilities
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Storytelling sessions that bring books to life
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Shared reading, encouraging connection through words and conversation
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Poetry performances, featuring spoken word and live readings
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Publishers and creative organisations showcasing opportunities
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Book and literacy stalls offering resources, recommendations and inspiration
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Family-friendly activities, making it a great day out for children too
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Workshops for those who want to get involved and develop their skills
As the Lord Mayor of Liverpool Cllr Barbara Murray enthused: “The 2026 Year of Reading is part of the wider Liverpool Literacy Cycle 2020–2026, with the launch event set to be a major moment for the city. It will bring together libraries, schools, universities, community groups, festivals, literacy organisations and local creatives who all share the same goal: helping Liverpool fall in love with reading all over again. The launch is a chance to discover the real depth of Liverpool’s literacy community. This includes the many emerging voices and independent publishers to the long-established organisations working to make books and reading accessible to everyone.
“It’s going to be a brilliant afternoon with the broader emphasis of the event fitting perfectly with my skills acquisition-themed fundraising* campaign. In all my years of serving on Liverpool City Council and working in education, what has shone out most is the power of literacy in helping people of all ages develop the powers of self-confidence and personal development as well as enhance their career and job prospects. The launch is going to be a fantastic experience for everybody concerned.”
More details about the event, including free tickets, can be found at:
https://ubiquitycollective.co.
Pictured with the Lord Mayor are head of fundraising Sylvia Lewis and Liverpool zeitgeist Peter Schriewersmann
