Date
Friday 11 September 2026 to Thursday 12 November 2026

Are you ready to embark on a literary adventure? 

This September, we invite all literary enthusiasts to join the British Council Reading Marathon an exciting two-month online literary journey designed to help book lovers read more, engage deeply and connect with fellow readers. 

Get ready for a captivating challenge filled with adventures between the pages, inspiring conversations and opportunities to discover new perspectives through books. 

Your Reading Marathon mission 

Read: Read four books from our Digital Library collection and complete them within the two-month programme. 

Engage: Take part in insightful sessions featuring a UK storyteller and literary figure and explore ideas beyond the pages. 

Reflect: Share your thoughts, reflections and reading experiences with fellow participants through engaging discussions and reading circles. 

What’s in it for you? 

  • Enjoy exclusive access to our Digital Library collection 
  • Interact with a literary figure during the opening ceremony 
  • Join exclusive sessions with reading circles and cultural engagement activities 
  • Connect with fellow readers and share your literary experiences 
  • Discover new books, perspectives and ideas throughout the journey 
  • Receive a certificate upon successful completion of the Reading Marathon  

Who can join? 

The programme is open to all British Council library members aged 18 and above, free of charge. 

Programme duration 

11 September  2026 – 12 November 2026 

Session details 

Session 

Date 

What to expect? 

Opening Ceremony 

Friday, 11 September 2026 11.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. (UTC) 

• Introduction to the programme format and Digital Library platform 
• Introduction with author Peggy Mohan gaining unique insights into their writing process and creative journey  
• Exciting preview of what’s ahead 

Participants who read and complete reading logs for a minimum of four books by 12 November 2026 will be awarded a certificate. 

For enquiries, please email us at digitallibrary@britishcouncil.org