Understanding reading engagement

Why reading engagement matters

Reading engagement matters because of both the immediate magic and joy that comes from reading for pleasure and the long-term learning and life benefits this can bring.

Reading for pleasure — a door to success

Aside from the sheer joy of exercising the imagination, research shows reading for pleasure improves literacy, social skills, health, and learning outcomes.

Reading for wellbeing (hauora)

The benefits of reading for pleasure extend beyond increased educational outcomes to improved wellbeing, health, and connections with others.

Reading promotion

Reading promotion gives you the chance to raise the profile reading in your school. It also allows you to share your passion for high-interest titles, favourite authors, and the joy of living a bookish life.

A school-wide reading culture

Creating a reading culture requires commitment and collaboration between the school, whānau, and public library. Here are some ideas and a reading culture review tool to help your school build the network of support students need to become engaged readers.

Organisations, events, and awards celebrating reading

Learn about organisations, events, and awards dedicated to creating and celebrating readers, and children’s literature in New Zealand and overseas.

My reading superhero

​My reading superhero is a series of animated short episodes celebrating the teachers, librarians and family members who read to and inspire us to read. Watch them and find out how to be an effective reading role model.​