St Helens Libraries to bring National Year of Reading celebrations to a close with Carnival of Reading

Article date: 4 November 2026

Taking place on Saturday 7 November from 10am to 5pm, the free event will transform St Helens Library and The World of Glass into a vibrant festival of reading, storytelling, theatre, music and creative activities.

The Carnival marks the grand finale of St Helens Libraries' local offer of the National Year of Reading, celebrating a year of initiatives designed to inspire residents of all ages to discover the joy of books and reading.

The event will showcase the power of reading to entertain, educate and connect communities, with a packed programme featuring award-winning authors, local creatives, live performances and hands-on activities.

Highlights include appearance from acclaimed children's author and poet Oliver Sykes, who takes outrageous stories from his childhood from the page to the stage in a groundbreaking live poetry adventure.

You can also join bestselling author and former Children's Laureate Frank Cottrell-Boyce as he shares fascinating insights into his celebrated career and talks about his favourite reads in a special edition of Desert Island Books.

Children's author Jen Carney, known for her hilarious B.U.G. adventures, will entertain audiences with readings, games and an author quiz.

Enjoy a thought-provoking performance from acclaimed poet John Lindley, former Cheshire Poet Laureate. John will share favourite works from his 11 published collections, blending sharp observation, rural charm, urban magic and plenty of humour.

Author, illustrator and filmmaker Lewis Hancox will explore the world of graphic storytelling, as he shares the story behind his bestselling graphic memoir Welcome to St Hell.

And comic creators Nick Brokenshire and David Kennedy will kick off a lively discussion on comics, illustration and visual storytelling. Hear about their creative journeys, blockbuster projects and behind-the-scenes experiences in an event packed with inspiration, insight and plenty of comic book magic.

Visitors can also enjoy a range of theatre performances, family storytelling sessions, workshops, creative activities, arts and crafts, film screenings, opportunities to meet local authors and artists, and music from St Helens Concert Band and talented local young people at Aspire Performing Arts Academy.

All activities are free to attend and no booking is required, ensuring as many people as possible can take part in the celebration. To see full programme details and more find St Helens Libraries on Facebook.

Councillor Stephen Claybrook, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Culture and Heritage, said:

"The Carnival of Reading will be a fantastic way to celebrate our love of reading and all the great things our libraries deliver across the borough, rounding off a hugely successful year of activity.

"Throughout the National Year of Reading, we've seen people of all ages discover new books, develop a love of storytelling and take part in creative activities that have brought communities together. This event captures the spirit of that work perfectly.

"With a host of bestselling authors, performers, workshops and free family activities on offer, the Carnival promises to be a memorable day for residents and visitors. I'd encourage everyone to come along, get involved and celebrate with us."

Throughout the National Year of Reading, St Helens Libraries has worked with schools, community groups, cultural organisations and residents to encourage reading for pleasure and help more people access books, stories and learning opportunities.

Alongside performances and events, visitors can find out more about the borough's wider programme of arts and cultural activities delivered through libraries and learn about opportunities to get involved in future workshops, projects and reading initiatives.

The Carnival of Reading takes place on Saturday 7 November, 10am to 5pm, with activities hosted in St Helens Library and throughout The World of Glass.