Readers Day Toolkit
02. Why hold a readers' day?
Participants in a readers' day should leave the event clutching a list of books that they have heard about for the first time, or been reminded about, that they now want to rush off and read. An aim of readers' days is to inspire readers through introducing new books and writers and fostering a shared enthusiasm for reading.
Readers' Days offer "added value" to library users and readers' group members. They provide an opportunity for readers to meet writers and other reading enthusiasts. They provide a chance to spend a concentrated period of time focusing on an enjoyable activity in the company of like-minded people. They act as an extension of the readers' group experience, providing opportunity to talk about books which may be older familiar titles, or may be new, with the added bonus of being able to question authors directly.
Readers' Days are most likely to attract people already engaged in readers' groups or regular library users. With high profile panellists and widespread marketing they may attract some individuals not already involved in reading activities- however they cannot really be looked at as a way of engaging large numbers of new audience without accompanying intensive outreach work. (See Cheshire case study below)
They offer the chance for the library service to gain some media profile. If you have your marketing right you shouldn't need the media to advertise the day in advance, but they do provide a good news item with some enjoyable quotes from local participants after the event.
Finally they also encourage some new partnerships with local bookshops, arts providers, colleges etc. who can all contribute to the shape of the day.
Time To Read currently has a full time paid co-ordinator, supported by Arts Coucil of England and Museums, Libraries and Archives, North West.