Start the year with something new
As students return after the festive break, it’s the perfect time to set new intentions — and make reading a priority. Whether you’re supporting reluctant readers or nurturing avid bookworms, small changes in your library can spark big shifts in reading culture.
Here’s how to kickstart a new academic term with practical ideas that make reading more inclusive, engaging, and student-led.
Host book tasting events: Create themed stations with quick-read previews and peer-led recommendations. Students explore new genres in a relaxed, social setting — and may discover a new favourite.
Launch book passports: Encourage genre exploration with a stamp-based passport system. Students collect stamps for each new genre or author they try, making reading feel like a journey.
Use Reading Cloud’s picture search and random theme selector to help students discover books they wouldn’t normally choose. Even if they don’t love every book, it’s a great way to refine their tastes and spark discussion.
Display student artwork: Invite students to create genre-themed displays or book posters. Run a friendly competition to vote on favourites — and draw in students who might not usually visit the library.
Make reading more accessible
Create a cosy reading nook: Add cushions or soft seating to create a wellbeing-focused space. A comfortable corner can turn the library into a favourite hangout spot.
Offer diverse resource types: Include audiobooks, eBooks, and accessible formats to support different learning styles.
Reading Cloud integrates with OverDrive and Project Gutenberg, offering access to over 70,000 free eBooks — ideal for schools with limited physical stock.
Personalise the reading journey: Tailored reading lists help students feel seen — and more likely to engage.
Use Reading Cloud to:
- Curate lists by interest or reading level.
- Let students build their own lists.
- Track progress and celebrate completion
Start small: create a “2025 Must-Reads” list and offer prizes or stickers for completed titles.
Empower students to share their voice
Reviews and blogs: Reading Cloud’s review and blog features guide students to reflect on their reading. Peer-to-peer recommendations build community and boost confidence.
Host book review sessions: Invite students to present their favourite books to peers. It’s a great way to build public speaking skills and spark meaningful literary discussions.
Use data to drive engagement
Reading Cloud’s reporting tools help you:
- Track reading trends by age, gender, and interest.
- Identify popular and underused titles.
- Align your catalogue with student needs.
This insight helps you curate a more relevant, engaging collection — and nurture lifelong reading habits.
With just a few simple initiatives, you can make a powerful start to the year. Whether it’s inspiring new readers or deepening the journey for existing ones, your library can be the heart of a thriving reading culture in 2025. Explore how Reading Cloud can support your library goals this year.
Powering a love for reading across school communities
To ignite a love of reading in your school community, you need more than a basic library system. Reading Cloud unites students, staff, and parents, empowering schools to foster independent learning and build a vibrant reading culture with easy-to-use tools.
