Free books and live storytelling as World Book Day comes to Stoke-on-Trent’s libraries

Stoke-on-Trent City Libraries have worked with the National Literacy Trust to welcome families into the city’s libraries to celebrate World Book Day 2026.

Called ‘Libraries Out Loud’, all six libraries will be opened on Saturday 7 March for some special storytelling events and activities.

All events are free to attend from 10:30am and there will be a professional storyteller at each library.

Thanks to the National Literacy Trust as well, every child who attends a session will get a free book to keep. They will also be given the new Stoke 100 Reads lists that will be launched a few days prior.

The following storytellers will be at the libraries:

• Sophia Hatfield at Bentilee Library (suitable for ages 2+)
• Pyn Stockman at City Central Library (suitable for ages 4+)
• Gav Cross at Longton Library (suitable for ages 4+)
• Julie Moss at Meir Library (suitable for ages 4+)
• Dommy B at Stoke Library (suitable for ages 6+)
• Alan Barrett at Tunstall Library (suitable for ages 6+)

This comes as this year has been designated the National Year of Reading, which is encouraging people of all ages to fall back in love with reading.

Councillor Sarah Hill, cabinet member for finance, anti-poverty and corporate services at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said, “Storytelling is an amazing thing to take part in – it expands our imaginations and helps the development of essential literacy skills.

“It’s important that all children in the city have access to books and stories, so I am thrilled that these events celebrating World Book Day will be offering free resources. I encourage all parents to bring their children and enjoy this very special day for stories across our city.”

Residents can find out how to contact their library of choice to book a place here: https://www.stoke.gov.uk/directory/4/libraries/category/353