A new initiative in Northern Ireland is encouraging bus and train passengers to use their travel time for reading. The campaign, known as Book Week NI, is a partnership between public transport operator Translink, BBC Northern Ireland, and Libraries NI, marking the 10th year of the program.
The goal is to highlight the benefits of reading for mental wellbeing and stress reduction, suggesting that commutes offer a perfect opportunity to engage with a book or audiobook instead of scrolling through social media.
Key Takeaways
- Translink, BBC NI, and Libraries NI have launched the 10th annual Book Week NI.
- The campaign encourages passengers to read or listen to audiobooks during their commutes.
- Events include a mobile library at a transport hub and a reading group at a major Belfast station.
- The initiative aims to improve wellbeing by promoting reading as a way to relax and de-stress.
A New Chapter for Commuters
Many daily commuters spend their journeys on smartphones, often browsing social media. Book Week NI aims to change this habit by reintroducing the simple pleasure of reading. The organizations behind the campaign believe that this shift can have a significant positive impact on mental health.
Jacqui Kennedy, Translink's Chief People Officer, emphasized the value of this dedicated time. "Your travel is an ideal opportunity to take the time to read or to listen to an audio book," she stated. Kennedy encourages people to rediscover the enjoyment of reading, even if it's just for a few pages at a time during a trip.
"Pick up a book, read a few pages and get back into that enjoyment of reading." - Jacqui Kennedy, Translink Chief People Officer
Events and Activities Across the Region
To support the campaign, a series of events and activities are scheduled throughout Northern Ireland. These are designed to make books more accessible and to celebrate the culture of reading in various public spaces.
Engaging Travelers Directly
A mobile library will be stationed at Translink's North West Transport Hub, providing easy access to books for travelers in the area. Additionally, a special reading group event is planned for Wednesday at Belfast's Grand Central Station. This event coincides with Love Your Library Day, a nationwide celebration of libraries.
Celebrating a Decade of Reading
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Book Week NI initiative. The long-standing collaboration between the BBC and Libraries NI, now joined by Translink, demonstrates a sustained commitment to promoting literacy and the joy of reading across Northern Ireland. The program has evolved over the years to include a wide range of activities for all age groups.
Cultural and Media Tie-ins
The campaign extends beyond transport hubs. A new BBC archive exhibition focusing on the life and work of poet Louis MacNeice has been commissioned. This exhibition will begin a tour of regional libraries, bringing literary history to local communities. Furthermore, a new BBC comedy drama series, Leonard and Hungry Paul, has been scheduled to air during Book Week. The series is based on the novel by Rónán Hession and is narrated by actress Julia Roberts.
Community and Expert Endorsements
The initiative has garnered support from various public figures and local experts. A number of well-known broadcasters, including Father Brian D'Arcy, Suzi Lee, and William Crawley, have shared their personal book recommendations to inspire passengers. Weather presenters Cecilia Daly and Ali Totten have also contributed suggestions.
Reading as a Brain Workout
Jenni Doherty, owner of Little Acorns bookshop in Londonderry, describes reading as "a workout for the brain." She advocates that reading helps individuals relax and unwind, expands vocabulary, and serves as a positive role model for children.
Dr Jim O'Hagan, Chief Executive at Libraries NI, highlighted the universal appeal of the campaign. "Everyone can take part - children, families, teenagers, students, retired people, those working from home and the list goes on," he said. Dr O'Hagan stressed that even a small commitment can make a difference.
"Taking time to read - even 15 minutes - can start a new chapter." - Dr Jim O'Hagan, Chief Executive at Libraries NI
Libraries NI has also organized its own program of events, which includes conversations with prominent local authors such as Wendy Erskine, Glenn Patterson, and Elly Griffiths.
How to Get Involved
Participation in Book Week NI is open to everyone. The campaign organizers have made resources and information readily available to the public.
- Event Schedules: A full list of events, including times and venues, can be found on the official website at bbc.co.uk/bookweekni.
- Digital Resources: The website also offers downloadable materials for children and young people, such as posters and bookmarks, to encourage reading at home and in schools.
- Library Membership: Local bookshop owner Jenni Doherty advised that getting a library card is one of the most valuable things a parent can do for their child, calling it "the greatest gift you're going to give them throughout the rest of their life."
Mark Adair, Head of Corporate Affairs at BBC NI, expressed his enthusiasm for the wide-reaching nature of the week. "There will be much to enjoy across the BBC's airwaves and in every part of the library network and in many other places as well, thanks to the support of colleagues in Translink, local schools and universities and many other organisations," he commented.
The combined efforts of these major organizations aim to embed reading more deeply into the daily lives of people across Northern Ireland, turning travel time into an opportunity for personal growth and relaxation.
