Tameside libraries launch project to build a community of readers

Guinness World Record challenges, author talks, and pop-up libraries are all part of the new library project, ‘Read, Connect, Belong’.

Tameside Council libraries are taking part in the campaign with other Greater Manchester and Blackburn with Darwen libraries, inviting residents to celebrate reading for pleasure, inspiring new readers and bringing together communities of readers.

Read, Connect, Belong is about supporting reading in all its forms and allowing people to come together and discover something new. This may include exploring other formats of reading, like novels, graphic novels, audiobooks, eBooks, magazines or newspapers.

Tameside Libraries will be taking part in a Guinness World Record attempt on Thursday, 8 October, aiming to set a new world record for the most people reading online in 12 hours.

To mark World Mental Health Day, a Take10 pop-up library will be at Ashton Bus Station on Friday, 9 October, where residents can sign up for a Tameside Library membership, pick up free giveaways and be encouraged to take 10 minutes to read for their mental wellbeing. The pop-up will then return on Saturday, 10 October at Tameside Stadium, giving more residents the opportunity to get involved.

Residents are invited to a ‘Night of Crime: Fact vs. Fiction’ where award-winning author Kate Ellis will be discussing her work in crafting outstanding crime fiction, on Wednesday, 25 November at Stalybridge Victoria Market Hall, between 5:30pm and 7:30pm. Joining her, Former DCI Vanessa Smith will be getting the audience involved in her hugely popular 'How to Investigate a Murder' talk.

In addition, a ‘Get Reading’ challenge for adults will be launching in October, with one lucky finisher winning an eReader.

This project is running throughout 2026 and to the end of 2027.

With funding from Arts Council England, Read, Connect, Belong has been developed in response to concerns about a decline in reading for pleasure. It recognises the important role libraries play as welcoming spaces and in supporting and encouraging reading. 

Tameside Council Executive Member for Lifelong Learning and Culture, Cllr Leanne Feeley said: “Whether you're already a keen reader or haven’t picked up a book for years, do join us and get involved in a wide range of free events and activities taking place in libraries and public spaces across Tameside. We want to support as many residents as possible in fostering and encouraging the love of reading.”

You can find out more about local events and activities by visiting your local library, following https://www.facebook.com/TamesideLibraries or visiting www.tameside.gov.uk/libraries