From Engagement to Impact
InspiREAD 2026
Celebrating 12 shortlisted engaging, diverse and inclusive children’s books and showcasing talented UK authors & illustrators.
- 60 schools engaged
- 33 public libraries participated
- 4,944 children connected with authors & illustrators in live events
- 49 live author & illustrator events
- 3000 votes online cast
Live Events
Author and Illustrator Workshops:
- 25 InspiREAD Live workshops on the day
- 13 school workshops in public libraries
- 11 virtual workshops
‘A lot of children re-ignited their love of reading after visiting the library and meeting the author. Children were enthused to read and wanted to stay in the library after to get some books'.
Derby City Virtual School (DVS)
Derby City Virtual School (DVS) and Inspire Education Library Service (ELS) work in partnership to improve opportunities and outcomes for Looked After Children and vulnerable children known to social care.
By widening access to high-quality, inclusive reading resources and inspiring reading experiences, the partnership aims to nurture lifelong readers and harness the benefits of reading for pleasure to support pupil wellbeing, engagement and academic outcomes.
At A Glance
- 9,020 high-quality books delivered to schools supporting the curriculum and promoting reading for pleasure.(Jan 26-Aug 26).
- DVS Primaries participated in InspiREAD 2026 - celebrating 12 engaging, diverse and inclusive books.
- 49 Live author & illustrator events took place for DVS pupils to access.
- Pupils and staff joined InspiREAD Live - a celebration of books, reading and creativity.
September 2026: At the time of reporting, 20 Derby City schools were participating in the partnership: 15 primary, 4 secondary and 1 special school.
- 100% said InspiREAD Book Award helped inspire children’s love of reading
- 100% said author & illustrator events inspired pupils and increased aspirations
- 100% reported having more high-quality books supporting the curriculum
- 100% reported wider access to high-quality, diverse reading-for pleasure books
- 100% reported staff having increased access to networks, resources and CPD
- 100% reported a positive impact on LAC and vulnerable children
- 86% reported a positive impact on academic outcomes AND wellbeing