On 23 April, readers around the world come together to celebrate World Book Night – a celebration of books, reading, and the joy of getting lost in a good story. In the Library, it’s the perfect moment to take a pause and remember that reading isn’t just for study or work, but can also play an important role in supporting our wellbeing.
Why reading for leisure matters
Reading for pleasure gives us permission to slow down. Whether it’s a novel that helps you switch off, a short chapter between tasks, or a familiar favourite you return to for comfort, leisure reading can help reduce stress, improve focus, and offer a mental break from busy routines.
For students and staff alike, making space for relaxed reading — with no deadlines or expectations — can be a simple but powerful act of self‑care.
Book Swap in the Library Wellbeing Space
Looking for your next feel‑good read? Or have a book at home that you’d like to pass on? Our Book Swap, located in the Library Wellbeing Space, is open to everyone and is all about sharing stories for pleasure, comfort and connection.
The idea is simple: take a book, leave a book (if you can) or just browse and enjoy. You’ll find a relaxed mix of fiction, non‑fiction and easy‑to‑dip‑into reads, perfect for switching off, taking a break from studying, or rediscovering the joy of reading just for yourself.
Pop along any time the library is open, take a moment to unwind in the Wellbeing Space, and see what’s waiting on the shelves. You never know you might find your next favourite book, or help someone else discover theirs.
Explore our Reading for Leisure collection
To help celebrate World Book Night, we’re shining a spotlight on our Reading for Leisure collection, designed to make choosing a book easy and enjoyable. The collection includes popular fiction, uplifting reads, and accessible non‑fiction, perfect whether you have hours to spare or just a few quiet minutes.
You’ll find the Reading for Leisure books as part of the Health and Wellbeing collection in the Wellbeing Space on Level 2 of the Library — a calm, welcoming area designed to support rest, reflection, and wellbeing.
If you’re not sure what to choose, try picking a book based on how you’d like to feel: comforted, distracted, inspired, or simply entertained.
Join in this World Book Night
This World Book Night, we invite you to put reading for pleasure first:
- Visit the Wellbeing Space on Level 2 and browse the Reading for Leisure collection
- Choose a book simply because it looks enjoyable
- Take part in #ReadingHour, from 7–8pm on 23 April, by setting aside time to read in whatever way suits you — print, audio, alone or with others
- Get involved in the Library book swap and give a book you’ve enjoyed a new home, while picking up something different to read
World Book Night is a reminder that reading can be restful, joyful, and good for our wellbeing. However you choose to celebrate, we hope you’ll take a little time to read purely for pleasure.