Lewisham Libraries kicks off Explore More, its flagship campaign for the National Year of Reading 2026
The National Year of Reading 2026 is a year‑long programme inviting us to Go All In and explore reading in all its forms. Like the national campaign, Explore More invites residents to broaden how they experience stories and reconnect with libraries as inclusive cultural and wellbeing hubs.
Lewisham’s libraries remain some of the borough’s most valued community spaces, and the Explore More campaign reflects the ongoing commitment to providing welcoming, well‑resourced places for everyone.
Alongside books, eBooks and magazines, Lewisham’s award-winning library service offers accessible activities across the borough, from yoga and mindfulness sessions to creative workshops, homework clubs, film screenings and bestselling author events.
For anyone unable to visit in person, the Home Library Service provides monthly deliveries of books, audiobooks, large print titles, CDs or iPads for disabled or older residents, carers and people recovering from illness.
Residents can also access learning and enterprise support through the Business and IP Centre network, offering expert advice, research tools and extensive digital resources through the Libby app.
Residents can also explore the borough’s rich history through the Lewisham Heritage Service, which preserves and shares local stories through exhibitions, archives and community projects.
Throughout 2026, Lewisham Libraries will host a wide range of special events and activities supporting both the National Year of Reading and the Explore More:
Programme highlights for 2026
- What’s Love Got to Do With It?
Saturday 7 February, Deptford Lounge
Free talks, readings, workshops and zine making with Zoe the Zinester.
- Raised Voices
Saturday 13 June, Deptford Lounge
Storytelling beyond the page—spoken word, music and audiobooks for adults and teens.
- Read to the Beat: Summer Reading Challenge launch
Saturday 25 July, 10am–4pm, all libraries
Author events, activities, Voxblock demos, comics, dyslexia friendly books and Storytime specials.
- Family Day
Tuesday 15 September, Downham Library
Early years focus with rhyme time, crafts, parenting authors, children’s yoga and links to Family Hubs and NHS partners.
- Black History Month
October, all libraries
Part of Lewisham’s Black History 365 programme.
- Imagined Worlds Festival
November, dates to be confirmed
A celebration of sci fi and fantasy with events, screenings and talks.
Councillor Sakina Sheikh, Cabinet Member for Culture, Communities and Sports, said:
“I’m proud to launch the National Year of Reading 2026 and Lewisham’s Explore More campaign here at Downham Library. Explore More encourages every resident to try new ways of reading and discover something that sparks their imagination. Our libraries remain free, inclusive and welcoming spaces at the heart of community life, and I hope people across the borough will join us throughout the year to make the most of everything they offer. This campaign builds on the extraordinary work of the service, which last year won the highly competitive London category in The British Book Awards Library of the Year 2025”.
“The ongoing refurbishment of Lewisham Library, reopening in 2027 with improved accessibility and new community areas, reflects our commitment to providing the very best spaces for residents.”
“Whether it’s eBooks, film screenings, chess club or reading in the traditional way, there’s something for everyone. Head to your local library and Explore More.”
How to join Lewisham Libraries
Anyone who lives, works or studies in London can join Lewisham Libraries. Sign up online for instant eLibrary access or visit any branch with proof of name and address to get a library card and start borrowing. Children under 13 need a parent or guardian as guarantor.