Oldham urged to rediscover libraries in 2026 National Year of Reading

Oldham's libraries are calling on residents to rediscover their local branches in 2026, the National Year of Reading. Councillor Peter Dean, the borough's Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure, is urging people to visit their nearest library if they haven't been for a while.

The borough boasts 12 libraries, from the bustling central library in Oldham's Cultural Quarter to community gems like the newly-refurbished Northmoor Library in Coldhurst and Uppermill Library in St Chad's Gardens. Last year, the central library attracted 900,000 visitors and was highly commended in the British Book Awards.

Libraries across Oldham are completely free to join and offer far more than just books. Members can borrow physical books, eBooks, eAudiobooks, eMagazines and eNewspapers through the free Borrowbox app. For those unable to visit in person, digital borrowing provides a convenient alternative.

Beyond reading materials, libraries host community groups including Knit and Natter, Chat and Choose, and Brews, Biscuits and Banter. A reading calendar with monthly prompts and book recommendations is available at all branches. The National Year of Reading programme includes author events, World Book Night celebrations, and the Summer Reading Challenge.

Upcoming events include an afternoon with author Adam Farrer on January 23 as part of the Healthy New Year Festival, and Little Reads storytelling sessions at Oldham Library on January 30 to celebrate National Storytelling Week. Residents can find their nearest library and join online at hla.oldham.gov.uk/libraries.