17 June 2025
BookTrust Storytime took place in 2,500 libraries last year, with 83% of librarians rating the programme highly.
BookTrust is today delighted to unveil the five books shortlisted for the BookTrust Storytime Prize 2026.
The prize celebrates the best books for sharing with children aged 0–5, and the shortlist will be sent to libraries along with accompanying resources as part of the BookTrust Storytime programme.
Watch this year’s winner Lucy Rowland introduce the shortlist here:
The books in the shortlist are:
News of the shortlist comes as BookTrust launches its latest BookTrust Storytime evaluation, which estimates that during the 2024–2025 cycle, 60,000 children took part in 2,568 libraries across England, Wales and Northern Ireland – approximately 90% of libraries.
Of these children, we estimate that:
34% were new to the library or setting
38% signed up for library membership
51% were from lower-income households
59% returned to the library or setting after their initial visit
Feedback from library staff was overwhelmingly positive, with 83% of libraries rating the programme highly and 79% reporting that the resources provided by BookTrust supported their work with families.
These outcomes underscore the value of BookTrust Storytime not only in reaching families, but also in equipping libraries with tools to create warm, welcoming spaces where shared reading can flourish.
The report also draws attention to the growing challenges facing children and families.
BookTrust’s library and local authority partners expressed deep concerns about a decline in children’s reading for enjoyment, with 99% of respondents noting this as a major issue.
Additionally, 95% reported declining reading attainment, while another 95% highlighted growing worries around children’s wellbeing and mental health.
Among the barriers preventing families from reading more, librarians highlighted a lack of time, negative perceptions of reading and books, lack of access to children’s books at home, a lack of confidence, and too many other things parents and carers feel they need to prioritise.
BookTrust Storytime aims to support families to overcome these barriers by encouraging them to discover the services and fun on offer at their local library.
Diana Gerald MBE, Chief Executive of BookTrust, said: “BookTrust Storytime is rooted in the belief that every child deserves joyful and inspiring reading experiences from the very beginning. We’re incredibly grateful to our library and local authority partners who bring these experiences to life in communities across the UK.
“Reading with children isn’t just a ‘nice-to-have’—it’s one of the most powerful ways to support a child’s development and future success.”
The next winner of the BookTrust Storytime Prize will be announced in April 2026.
Find out more about our BookTrust Storytime early years programme for libraries.
Find out more