National Young Readers Day

The National Young Readers Day is observed each year on the second Tuesday in November, which in 2025 falls on November 11. This special day shines a light on children’s literacy and the joy of discovering stories through reading. It invites families, schools and communities to come together to celebrate books, encourage young minds, and nurture a lifelong love of reading. Whether shared aloud in a classroom or curled up at home with a favorite story, this day reminds everyone that reading opens doors to imagination and understanding.

History of National Young Readers Day

This observance was co-founded in 1989 by Pizza Hut and the Center for the Book in the Library of Congress (a division of the Library of Congress) to call national attention to the importance of reading for young people.
Over time it has become part of the larger framework of National Young Readers Week, which takes place during the second full week of November and includes this special day.

Why is National Young Readers Day important?

National Young Readers Day is important because it emphasizes how foundational reading is to children’s development—intellectually, socially and emotionally. By setting aside a day (and week) to celebrate young readers, educators, parents and communities highlight reading not just as a skill but as a source of discovery, imagination and lifelong enjoyment.
In addition, the day helps rally support for literacy initiatives, book access, library programmes and family involvement, ensuring that children have opportunities to read, to be read to, and to explore books in a fun, engaging way.

• It encourages children to develop reading habits early, improving vocabulary, comprehension and confidence.
• It promotes the role of parents, teachers and librarians in nurturing a love of reading.
• It draws attention to book access and literacy equity—making sure young readers aren’t left behind.
• It reminds communities that reading together strengthens bonds, invites conversation and sparks curiosity.
• It helps shape a culture where reading is valued, visible and celebrated in schools, homes and libraries.

How to Celebrate (or Observe) National Young Readers Day

Celebrating this day can be joyful and simple, centred on sharing stories, books and reading time with children of any age. It’s ideal to set aside an hour—or more—where reading takes the spotlight, and to create an environment that invites exploration and choice.
Consider visiting your local library, letting a child pick a book, reading aloud together or starting a small reading challenge. The emotional dimension is about giving children time, attention and encouragement as they engage with books—showing that reading matters.

• Read aloud a favourite children’s book (or one they choose) and talk about it together.
• Visit a library or bookstore and let a child browse and select something new.
• Start a family reading corner: cosy space, books within reach, no distractions.
• Gift a child a book, or organise a book swap among friends or classmates.
• Encourage a reading “passport” or challenge: e.g., read 5 books this month, draw or write about them.

National Young Readers Day Dates Table