Spreading the joy of reading for World Book Night 2026

To mark World Book Night, our librarians have been spreading the joy of reading by giving away free copies of The Woman Next Door by Louise Jenson in the Royal Pavilion Garden and between the Palace Pier and West Pier on the seafront today.

World Book Night (Thursday 23 April) is an international celebration of reading and books led by The Reading Agency, a UK charity that inspires social and personal change through the power of reading.

The Woman Next Door is a Quick Reads story following 2 neighbours, each hiding a dangerous secret. 

Quick Reads are short books by bestselling authors, written in an accessible and easy-to-read style designed to boost reading skills and confidence. Quick Reads have helped thousands of adults to read, complete and enjoy a book for the first time.

We’re also inviting residents to join Reading Hour from 7pm to 8pm this evening. You can read any book you like, in whatever format you prefer – a physical book, an e-book or an audiobook, all of which can be borrowed from our libraries.

Discover our libraries and their opening times. 

Benefits of reading

Reading is proven to support learning, wellbeing, connection, creativity and opportunity at every age and stage of life. 

Reading for pleasure has also been linked to a wide range of mental health benefits and can increase positivity, self esteem and emotional intelligence.

Any free moment can be an opportunity to escape into a book. You can read anywhere and everywhere: indoors or outdoors, your favourite armchair, on the bus or train, or on a bench in a sunny spot. The possibilities are endless! 

Reading can be a solo activity, or you can share your love of reading by joining or starting a book group, which our libraries can offer help and support with.

Learn more about book groups in Brighton & Hove.

Improving wellbeing 

Councillor Alan Robins, Cabinet Member for Sports, Recreation & Libraries, said: “We’re delighted to be supporting World Book Night and promoting the life-changing benefits of reading. 

“In the UK, one in six adults struggle to read and half of all adults don't read regularly, but research shows that reading improves wellbeing and strengthens communities. 

“Whether you spend time reading regularly or rarely, World Book Night is a fantastic chance to celebrate the countless benefits that books offer, so take this opportunity to dedicate an hour of your day to reading and relaxation. 

“You can read fiction or non-fiction, a physical book, an e-book or an audiobook. All of these formats are available to borrow through our fantastic library service. It’s free to become a member and you can register online or in person at any of our libraries.”