Reading Ahead Challenge

Take part in Newcastle's reading challenge for adults.

Improve your literacy, read more often or rediscover reading for pleasure.

How do I take part in the Reading Ahead Challenge?

Anyone can take part in Reading Ahead. All you need to do is join the library and read 6 books (or other items) over the course of four months. We will provide you with a challenge diary for you to complete in your own time and will help you to choose reading material you'll love. 

Reading Ahead participants are also invited to library events, including our World Book Night celebration and Late Shows evening, and will attend a special celebration event for challenge completers.

What counts toward the challenge?

We want to encourage everyone to read more so (almost!) anything counts towards the challenge. Visit our Discover catalogue for reading inspiration.

We have Large Print and eAudiobooks for those who find reading print difficult, an "improving readers" collection for those who are not yet fluent readers, and books in languages other than English. We also have fantastic fiction and non-fiction, graphic novels, comic books, poetry, plays, and even digital magazines.

How can the library help you?

We'll be working closely with organisations like UNISON, YHN, and local colleges to bring the Reading Ahead out into the community. If you're part of a local organisation and think your staff members or service users might like to take part, let us know and we'll arrange a visit.

If you're taking part as an individual we're also here to help

• Library staff across Newcastle Library branches are on hand to help you find reading material. You can collect a Reading Ahead Challenge pack on L3 of City Library
• You can make an appointment with Toni or Patrick from our Reading Team at City Library to discuss your reading needs. Email readinggroups@newcastle.gov.uk
• You can continue your reading journey beyond the challenge by joining a library Reading Group or Practise English group.