Following a fabulously successful second visit to Riversley Park earlier in the month, Warwickshire County Council has announced that Park Life Reads in 2027 with a date of 31 July now confirmed.
The event, organised by the County Council’s library service and Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council’s Museum Service has packed families into the park over the last two years for a day of literacy, learning and wellbeing.
Having seen attendance nearly double in 2026, the County Council has confirmed that it is starting to plan next year’s event. Funding comes from Warwickshire’s status as a National Portfolio Organisation, which allocates Arts Council England funding to promote literacy in priority areas.
It is used to provide free events, goods and activities including lunches and ice creams for local families.
Cllr Mike Bannister, portfolio holder for Resources and Internal Affairs at Warwickshire County Council said: “Park Life Reads is an amazing event. Some of our families in the area are feeling the pinch of the cost of living and to have such an amazing array of activities on offer is a real boost.”
Attractions included live illustration and storytelling sessions, art and craft activities, Bhangra workshops and massage stations. Shakespeare’s work was brought to life in creative workshops. Face painting, henna art, author workshops, a bouncy castle and special guest appearances by children’s favourites Bluey and Eko the Sea Giant were also part of the fun.
The National Literacy Trust team was also on hand giving away books.
But Park Life Reads is more than just putting on a spectacular day, as Cllr Bannister elaborates.
"What this event does so well is help us to build stronger links with local communities and inspire more people to discover the benefits of reading. Yes, it’s fabulous fun, but it also ignites curiosity for reading and learning.
“We know that reading can transform lives, support educational achievement, improve future employment opportunities and help people fulfil their potential. Getting people into the library, getting them reading and learning is key to creating opportunities .
“This year we had Nuneaton Borough Football Club encouraging some of our local lads to get into reading. That’s the exact demographic that we are most keen to engage and we’re making inroads.
"Quite apart from the fact that I have had a great day at Park Life Reads over the last two years, I’m delighted it’s coming back. Let’s hope we can build on the progress we have made in the local communities and make reading and learning an everyday activity for more people."
For more information on Warwickshire Libraries, as well as how to get involved in the National Year of Reading, go to www.warwickshire.gov.uk/libraries