Skip navigation to main content

Every week, The Reader brings people together at Shared Reading groups across the UK. Here, people connect, and share experiences using stories and poems. There is no pressure to talk or read aloud.

You’ll find Shared Reading groups in lots of community spaces, like libraries, shops and cafés, bringing the magic of reading aloud to villages, towns and cities across the country.

Shared Reading groups are open to all and free to attend. Find one near you here.

Why join a Shared Reading group?

At Shared Reading groups, a trained Reader Leader selects wonderful stories and poems to read aloud together. Everyone is welcome to share how the words make them feel, as well as their thoughts, ideas and memories. There is no pressure to talk or read aloud.  
 
Everyone experiences what is read in their own way, but the shared language found in literature can help us to understand ourselves – and others – better.

Research tells us that Shared Reading really makes a difference, find out more here.

  • 97%

    I look forward to this group as an important part of my week

  • 95%

    I’ve got to know people who have different lives and experiences to me

  • 93%

    In Shared Reading, we have conversations that matter

  • 90%

    Shared Reading helps me to connect with others in a deeper way

How to join a group

Shared Reading groups run across the UK in a range of different venues.

Groups are drop-in so its as simple as just turning up.

Find your nearest group by exploring our interactive map. Here, you’ll find details of your venue so if you’d like to, you can contact someone in advance of attending.

Find a group

Become a Volunteer

Our Reader Leaders help us to bring Shared Reading to those who need it most. Our aim is to create an atmosphere of inclusivity, where everyone feels truly at home. 

You don’t need to be from a certain walk of life or a literature expert. Anyone who wants to help others is welcome to apply.

Find out more and apply