World Book Day 2026

Early day motion 2818, tabled 23 February 2026 by Jim Shannon (DUP). Signed by 15 members.

That this House celebrates preparations for World Book Day 2026, recognising the continued importance of this annual event in promoting a love of reading among children and young people across the UK and Northern Ireland; acknowledges the vital contribution that reading makes to educational attainment, personal development and mental wellbeing; notes the work of schools, libraries, teachers, parents, carers, publishers, authors, volunteers and literacy charities in encouraging reading for pleasure and supporting literacy development; further notes that strong reading skills are fundamental to tackling educational disadvantage and improving social mobility; and calls on the Government to continue supporting initiatives that widen access to books, strengthen school and public library services, and promote reading as a cornerstone of young people’s education and future success.

Signatures by party: Green 4, Labour 3, Conservative 2, DUP 2, Independent 2, Labour/Co-operative 1, Liberal Democrat 1.