In a landmark initiative, Penguin Books has announced its first partnership with the UK City of Culture program, joining forces with Bradford, which will hold the prestigious title in 2025. This collaboration aims to foster a new generation of readers, writers, and publishers by breaking down barriers to books, reading, and the publishing industry.
The UK City of Culture initiative designates a different city every four years to host a year-long program of cultural festivities. Bradford’s selection promises a vibrant array of events and activities, and Penguin Books is stepping up to enhance the literary landscape within the community. Through a series of initiatives designed to engage and inspire, Penguin aims to cultivate a love of reading while supporting educational diversity.
One of the highlights of this partnership is Penguin’s commitment to donate a remarkable 4,600 books to the 46 local state secondary schools in Bradford. This generous contribution is not just about providing books; it represents an investment in the future of the students, ensuring they have access to diverse literature that reflects their experiences and broadens their horizons.
In addition to book donations, Penguin is organizing a pivotal event for secondary school English literature teachers titled “Reflective Practice on Diversity: What Can I Do from Today?” This session aims to bolster teachers’ confidence and knowledge regarding race and racism, offering practical tips, book recommendations, and sample lesson plans to diversify the teaching of English literature. By empowering educators, Penguin hopes to create a more inclusive learning environment for all students.
For those with dreams of becoming published authors, Penguin is also hosting a free public event designed to demystify the publishing process. This panel discussion will feature a published author, a Penguin editor, and a literary agent, providing invaluable insights into the journey of writing and publishing. Aspiring writers will gain a clearer understanding of the industry and the steps they can take to turn their literary dreams into reality.
Recognizing the importance of career development, Penguin will conduct workshops in three Bradford secondary schools. Led by Penguin employees, these sessions will provide students with a comprehensive overview of various career opportunities in publishing, from editorial roles to marketing and design. Participants will also receive free books and merchandise, further igniting their passion for literature and the publishing industry.
The UK City of Culture initiative is projected to attract approximately 3.3 million new visitors, with an estimated visitor spend of around £140 million directly benefiting the local economy. Additionally, it aims to create around 6,500 jobs and more than 6,000 training opportunities for local residents by 2030. By investing in the cultural fabric of Bradford, Penguin Books is contributing to a broader vision of long-term cultural regeneration.
Meredith Adams, head of social impact at Penguin, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration: “We’re delighted to be working with Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture to celebrate the power of literature and reading in local communities. Our program of activities across the year will include book donations to local secondary schools, workshops for aspiring writers and young people interested in careers in publishing, and much more.”
A Bright Future Ahead
As Bradford gears up for its year as the UK City of Culture, the partnership with Penguin Books promises to create lasting impacts on the community. By fostering a culture of reading and supporting the next generation of writers and publishers, this initiative not only enriches the local literary scene but also empowers individuals to embrace their creative potential.
In 2025, as the city celebrates its vibrant cultural heritage, it will also witness the blossoming of new voices and stories, all thanks to the collaborative efforts of Penguin Books and the Bradford community. The future is bright, and the pages of this story are just beginning to turn.
