Worcestershire Libraries Power of Libraries Conference is back for a second year.
Our headline speaker Lauren Child, award-winning children’s author and illustrator, and creator of some of the UK’s most loved characters including Charlie and Lola, Clarice Bean and Ruby Redfort. Lauren was the 10th Waterstones’ Children’s Laureate (2017 to 2019) and was awarded a CBE for Services to Literature in 2020.
During her talk, she will share insights into the importance of reading in the early years, children’s reading rights, and how practitioners can help develop intrinsically motivated readers from the very start of a child’s life.
Hosted by Worcestershire County Council’s Library Service, the conference will bring together nursery and reception practitioners, early years leads, and childminders, to inspire a lifelong love of reading in children aged 0–5. It will showcase creative approaches to shared reading and highlight how libraries can support early years settings in developing strong, confident reading cultures.
The conference also features leading voices in early years education and literacy, including Sam Wass, expert in early years brain development; Donna David, English coach; Samantha Jayne Hulston, ESRC Postdoctoral Fellow at The Open University; and BookTrust, alongside practical workshops led by Sal Tonge and Thomas Docherty.
Attending the conference will help settings strengthen reading for pleasure and embed a positive reading culture, supporting strong Ofsted outcomes. Attendees will gain practical, research-based strategies for impactful storytimes, build staff confidence, and learn how to demonstrate clear intent, implementation, and impact in their reading practice. Participants will also receive free books and resources to enhance their environment and curriculum.
Councillor Ian Cresswell, Cabinet Member with Responsibility for Environment and Communities, said: “Reading is essential for a child’s development, and libraries are crucial in making that happen. With big names leading talks and workshops, this conference offers Early Years professionals valuable insights into how libraries can inspire a love of reading. I encourage everyone in Early Years education to attend and make the most of this opportunity.”
Last year’s conference had a huge impact. 90% of attendees said they felt more inspired to build a reading community and 82% said it exceeded their expectations, with an average rating of 4.82 out of 5 stars. One attendee said, “I really enjoyed learning how libraries and reading can level the playing field.” Another commented, “The programme was perfect - engaging speakers and practical ideas I could use right away.”
Event Details
Date: 19 March 2026
Time: 9:00am to 4:00pm
Location: The Hive Library, Worcester, Sawmill Close, The Butts, Worcester WR1 3PD
How to book
Places are available at a special Early Bird rate of £50 per person, including lunch and refreshments. Places are limited, so don’t miss out! For full conference details and to book, visit The Power of Libraries webpage.
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