A festival of literature comes to Hillingdon this year, through a range of library events and activities organised by Hillingdon Council to promote literacy and reconnect people with books, to celebrate The National Year of Reading 2026.
Throughout the year, activities across the library branches will be themed to the campaign, with regular branch sessions running alongside several one-off events.
The celebrations begin with the World Book Day Festival at the end of February, with more than 4,000 eager schoolchildren already signed up to attend author sessions, including Nathanael Lessore and Alice Hemming, which will be held both virtually and in-person at the Winston Churchill Theatre in Ruislip.
Hillingdon's headline event, The Big Book Night will take place at the Compass Theatre on Friday 13 March, bringing together more than a dozen popular authors for a fundraising evening of readings and storytelling.
Hear celebrated writers read from their favourite books, share the stories that shaped their lives, and reflect on the tales that sparked their imaginations growing up. Tickets cost £15, with proceeds going to The Brain Tumour Charity.
Other highlights, include best-selling author Ben Aaronovitch visiting Uxbridge Library on 15 April for a fascinating talk on the latest in his Rivers of London book series and The Hillingdon Libraries Crime Festival returning for its second year to the Winston Churchill Theatre on Saturday 13 June.
The popular page turning Summer Reading Challenge returns in the summer, encouraging children aged four to 11 to use the summer holidays to read books they enjoy during the school holidays and engage in activities and themed events.
Cllr Wayne Bridges, Hillingdon Council’s Cabinet Member for Community and Environment, said: “The year ahead is packed full of reading related events for all ages to enjoy. Ranging from Tiny Tales, aimed at familiarising children with stories and encouraging parents and carers to read to youngsters, to a schedule of amazing author talks - there's something for everyone.
“Last year put Hillingdon Libraries on the literary map with our first sold out Crime Festival - and I’m glad to see that's back.
“We want residents of all ages to enjoy reading, and we hope this year’s events will both inspire new readers and highlight all the events and activities our libraries offer.”
Find your nearest library at www.hillingdon.gov.uk/libraries
Book a ticket for Big Book Night at discover.hillingdon.gov.uk/big-book-night
