National Year of Reading Roundup

This year's National Year of Reading has begun with government backing for for books and school libraries, author and storytelling events around the country, and a fresh look at how to encourage reading for pleasure among children and teenagers.

Each month ReadingZone will share the latest news and research, point you towards author events and festivals, and shine a light on what we can all do to help children and teenagers grow as readers.

This month, we focus encouraging shared reading at home, with expert Alison David (HarperCollins), and on advocacy for school libraries to ensure their work in creating readers is recognised within the school environment.

Supporting reading for pleasure in your school

In a series of monthly ReadingZone articles, experts will share their research and findings to help you support reading for pleasure in your school setting.

Is Storytime key to reading for pleasure?  Alison David, consumer insight director at HarperCollins Children's Books and Farshore, highlights the transformative effect of reading aloud to children.

Championing school libraries: The role of school librarians in encouraging children as readers can't be understated, but how should school librarians quantify that impact, and ensure that school leadership recognises the value of their work? ReadingZone spoke with library consultant and trainer Barbara Band about advocacy for school libraries.

National Year of Reading CPD support

'Unlocking Reading' training events for secondary schools: Find out more about free CPD supported by the Department for Education

The National Literacy Trust is running a number of webinars to guide schools through reading for pleasure during the National Year of Reading, including Early Years, Primary and Secondary webinars, as well as a National Year of Reading toolkit to download.