Date
Friday 16 August 2024 to Saturday 09 November 2024

This September, we invite all literary enthusiasts to join the new session of the British Council Reading Marathon—an exciting two-month online literary journey for book lovers to grow as engaged readers!  

Your mission: 

  • Read 4 books: Borrow at least four books from our curated digital library collection and complete them within two months. 
  • Engage: Participate in insightful sessions with the UK storyteller and British Council experts. 
  • Reflect: Share your thoughts on your reading journey with fellow readers.

What’s in it for you? 

  • Exclusive access to our curated book collection. 
  • Interact with a renowned author during the opening ceremony. 
  • Learn the art of storytelling from a distinguished UK storyteller. 
  • Connect with fellow readers and reflect on your literary experiences.  
  • Receive a certificate upon successful completion of the marathon. 

Who can join?  

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

If you are not a British Council Library member, you must first become a member to participate in the programme. Please register here to express your interest here ; we will connect with you separately.  

Programme duration: From 7 September to 8 November 2024. 

Session Details: 

Session  Date What to expect?
Opening Ceremony

Saturday, 7 September 2024 

11.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. (UTC)

  • Introduction to the programme format and digital library platform  
  • Interaction with a renowned UK author, gaining unique insights into their writing process and creative journey  
  • Exciting preview of what’s ahead 
Storytelling Session

Friday, 4 October 2024 

12.30 p.m. to 1.30 p.m. (UTC)

  • Gain insights from Katy Cawkwell, a UK-based performance storyteller and workshop leader. 
  • Discover the secrets of effective storytelling, with an emphasis on character development and plot structure. 
  • Listen to a traditional story to experience storytelling in action. 
  • Learn practical techniques, including character visualization and improvisation using "the story bones. 
  • Enhance your understanding of storytelling fundamentals. 
Closing Ceremony

Friday, 8 November 2024 

12.30 p.m. to 1.30 p.m. (UTC)

  • Acknowledge the achievements of all participants and winners
  • Review participant feedback and shared experiences.
  • Reveal the top titles of books read during the program. 
  • Announce the top 3 readers of the program. 

How to register? 

British Council library members: Click here to register in the event for FREE.  

Non-members: Register here  to express your interest in library membership and the programme. We will contact you separately.  

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