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Books Out Loud

A woman reads aloud to a group of children

Our research reveals that when children and young people enjoy reading and read daily in their free time, their reading skills, aptitude for learning, wellbeing, empathy and confidence benefit. However, too many young people are missing out on these benefits as the number of children in the UK reading for enjoyment is at an all-time low.

Books Out Loud taps into the powerful influence that role models can have on reading, encouraging volunteers to provide a gateway to books through listening for the young people they work with.

The initiative grew from a local campaign created by the National Literacy Trust in Birmingham called 'Books Aloud' in 2024. Working with young people and adults across the city, volunteers inspired groups with mixed reading abilities to engage positively with books through listening and discussion in a social and friendly environment.

In summer 2025, we took the challenge nation-wide as Books Out Loud. 136 volunteers signed up from across the UK! Volunteers took part in an online information event and received a resource packed with ideas to facilitate engaging, relevant and enjoyable moments of reading aloud.

The challenge will re-open in May 2026 to celebrate Share-a-Story Month! Watch this space to find out more.