Booktober Reading Day

The National Year of Reading is a UK-wide campaign encouraging more people to make reading part of everyday life. Whether you're passionate about football, fashion, music, gardening, history or fantasy, reading helps you explore the things that interest you.

This day is all about making space for that – to slow down, pick up a book and enjoy reading, whatever you're into.

What to expect

• Spend the day reading in our café
• Discover your next favourite book through our Book Exchange
• Join fellow readers to celebrate the stories, ideas and subjects you love.

The café in the Banking Hall is open throughout the day and serves hot and cold drinks.

Take the opportunity to see Helios, a vast illuminated sculpture by British artist Luke Jerram depicting the surface of the sun using NASA imagery.

Do I need to book?

No booking needed. This event is free and drop-in at any time. If you'd like to attend our bookable events during the day, please click the following booking links: Chatterbooks.

Facilities and accessibility

This talk takes place in The Vaults, which is accessible by stairs and lift.

We’re committed to making The Exchange as welcoming and accessible as possible. There’s step-free access and accessible toilets on all floors, plus a Changing Places toilet on the basement level. Guide dogs and assistance animals are always welcome. If you have any questions about access, just drop us an email at engage@contacts.bham.ac.uk.