By Ella Henke | 6 May 2026
In celebration of the National Year of Reading, the campaign led by the National Literary Trust to encourage more people to pick up a book in 2026, Suffolk Community Libraries recently visited Stoke Library to talk to students about their reading habits in a new short film.
The film captures real student voices, with pupils discussing their favourite books, reading habits and honest reflections on why some young people struggle to read for enjoyment.
It also features 1:1 reading sessions from Stoke High’s Peer Readers programme that sees younger and older pupils paired together for regular reading sessions in the library, alongside striking on-screen messages highlighting national literacy data and the life-changing importance of reading.
The opportunity to take part in filming gave pupils from Hillside Primary School and Stoke High a rare behind-the-scenes look at working with a professional film crew and all that goes into producing a film.
The students got to collaborate with celebrated filmmaker Andy Delaney of New Art Films, who found the experience to be equally rewarding. Andy said:
“Being able to capture these young people’s genuine enthusiasm for reading was inspiring and I hope it gently reminds people of the deep value and joy that reading provides.”
Karen Baldwin, Principal at Stoke High School, said:
“This has been an incredible experience for our students. They haven’t just taken part in a film – they’ve shared their voices, stories and passion for reading.
“Our Peer Readers programme is transforming attitudes to reading, and it’s brilliant to see that recognised in such a creative and meaningful way.”
The short film is now available to watch on the Suffolk Community Libraries YouTube channel.
Why is reading for pleasure important?
Whether or not a child reads for pleasure is the single biggest indicator of their future success, more than family circumstances, their parents educational background, or income.
Children who read for pleasure are likely to do significantly better at school than their peers, have higher levels of self-esteem and a greater ability to cope with difficult situations.
Reading for pleasure can reduce the symptoms of depression and improve wellbeing throughout life. It can make people feel more connected to the wider community, increase their understanding of their own identity, improve empathy and it gives readers an insight into the world view of others.
Suffolk Community Libraries are the perfect place to support children reading for pleasure. With 1000s of titles in stock, all free to borrow and reserve, there’s something for every kind of reader.
Find out more about how libraries are supporting the National Year of Reading.