Take part in the Book Bingo reading challenge this autumn

Adults across West Northamptonshire are being encouraged to rediscover the joy of reading and take part in a new Book Bingo challenge launching in LibraryPlus libraries early next week.

28 September 2026

The free challenge, which is open to library customers aged 18 and over, forms part of the National Year of Reading and has been made possible thanks to public funding from the National Lottery through Arts Council England. It is designed to encourage reading for pleasure, support literacy and inspire more people to make the most of their local library service.

Open to all library customers aged 18 and over, Book Bingo encourages participants to explore six themed reading challenges that are flexible, accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Rather than focusing on specific genres, the challenge invites readers to interpret each theme in their own way, whether through fiction, non-fiction, biographies, newspapers, magazines, eBooks or audiobooks.

Participants collect a stamp for each challenge they complete and, once all six squares are finished, can return their completed card and feedback questionnaire to be entered into a prize draw to win a £50 book token. An additional Library Explorer bonus challenge offers readers a second entry into the draw.

The initiative aims to encourage adults to read more often, discover new authors and formats, build confidence in reading, and showcase the positive impact that reading can have on wellbeing, learning and community connection.

Cllr Charlie Hastie, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities at West Northamptonshire Council said: "Reading has the power to educate, inspire and improve wellbeing, and our libraries play a vital role in helping residents access books, information and opportunities to learn.

"Book Bingo is a fun and engaging challenge that encourages people to try something new, discover different authors and formats, and enjoy all that our LibraryPlus service has to offer. Whether you're already a keen reader or looking to get back into reading, I'd encourage everyone to get involved."

Book Bingo cards will be available from all LibraryPlus libraries across North and West Northamptonshire, with the challenge running until 13 March 2027. Participants who complete all six reading challenges and return their completed card will be entered into a prize draw to win a £50 book token.