With reads still rolling in, Coventry has reached One Million Reads!
The project, which has been running throughout the City of Culture year, set the ambitious target of counting 1,000,000 reads across the city.
HRH Duchess of Cornwall launched the project and submitted the ‘first read’ back in May 2021. Now, in May 2022, that figure stands at a staggering 1,262,798.
Reads have been counted across Coventry’s libraries, as well as at universities, schools, and workplaces. Readers of all ages have got behind the challenge, submitting their reads either in libraries or online.
The project was funded by Arts Council England, the support of which enabled a vibrant programme of events to bring unique and meaningful reading experiences to Coventry. This programme included a photographer-in-residence, five QR Code Trails, and an interactive Story Bench.
Cllr Dr Kindy Sandhu, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, said: “I am delighted to hear that not only have we have reached over One Million Reads in Coventry, but exceeded it too! What a wonderful achievement for our city.
“Over the last year, One Million Reads has helped to place reading and libraries at the heart of the City of Culture. The programme containing many events connected Coventry’s people and communities with the pleasure of reading, offering opportunities to share powerful stories.
“It has been lovely to see the enjoyment that reading can bring to many of us, young and old and how the power of storytelling can have such a strong impact on our wellbeing. I do hope we continue exceeding our reads!