Reading in a Digital World: Creativity and Community in 2026
In the National Year of Reading 2026, we explore how creativity, community and technology are reshaping the way we experience stories in a fast-moving digital world.
A Year to Reimagine Reading The National Year of Reading 2026 is a UK-wide celebration encouraging people of all ages to rediscover reading for pleasure. But it isn’t simply about returning to traditional books. The campaign recognises that reading today takes many forms, from novels and magazines to audiobooks, digital content and shared community experiences. Its message is simple: follow what interests you, and let reading grow from there.
Not a Traditional Reader - And That’s OK For years, I wouldn’t confidently have described myself as a reader. I often start books with enthusiasm and then drift. My creativity pulls me elsewhere. That used to dent my confidence as though finishing every novel was what made you a “real” reader.
Yet I read constantly. Biographies, research on innovation and creative thinking, educational resources that shape how I work and see the world. I engage with ideas just not always in a straight line. Over time, I’ve realised this isn’t failure. It’s simply how I process stories.
Storytelling at Home When my children were little, story became something shared and playful. We had a talking teddy that responded to certain words. We recorded our voices reading books so they could be replayed later. Nursery rhymes were favourites - rhythmic and comforting. And of course, we loved Julia Donaldson, whose musical language made reading aloud something special. Those moments weren’t about finishing books. They were about connection.
Creativity, Community and New Doorways As a child, I would fill pages with colour before adding words. The story emerged through creativity rather than planning. That approach still shapes me. In art, I follow instinct; in business, I craft stories strategically through brand and communication. Both are expressions of literacy - one intuitive, one intentional.
When we give children space to imagine, experiment and create, we build more than reading skills. We develop creativity, confidence and problem-solving qualities that will shape future roles in innovation, technology and business.
Super Stars at Mini Malarkey: The Power of Story and Community Working with Hull Libraries at the Mini Malarkey reminded me how powerful inclusive storytelling can be. During these sessions, Hull Central Library becomes a space filled with laughter, imagination and shared experience.
The Reel Creative delivered a Super Star music-themed creative tech workshop as part of the festival. Children designed album covers using Canva, created dance floors for augmented reality robots and explored a virtual reality Viking drumming experience. Our newest team member, Ben-Ben the robot dog, quickly stole the show. It was a lively reminder that creativity and technology can sit comfortably alongside traditional storytelling.
For some families, live events offer vital access. For others, audiobooks and digital tools provide meaningful entry points. Balance matters. Some connect through books. Some through sound. Some through digital interaction. In a digital world, creativity keeps stories evolving and open to everyone.
Hull Libraries’ staff and HEY! Volunteering team create welcoming environments where stories feel alive. It isn’t just about the books; it’s about the people who make these moments possible.
HEY! Volunteers are VisitEngland Tourism Superstar finalists! HEY! Volunteering (Hull & East Yorkshire) is a Top 10 finalist in the VisitEngland Tourism Superstar 2026 awards. Vote by 22 March 2026 at visitengland.org/tourismsuperstarvote.