Reading is the Key

Reading is Key is a nationwide, community-based initiative designed to strengthen children’s reading skills and counteract the decline in reading ability that often occurs during the summer break.

Each year, a significant share of children risk losing reading proficiency over the summer – particularly those who already struggle. Reading is Key addresses this challenge at scale by mobilising entire communities. Schools, libraries, civil society organisations, and families come together around a shared mission: to keep children reading.

The model combines reading with play, movement, and social interaction, making reading both engaging and accessible. A core component is the involvement of young reading ambassadors, who read with younger children in informal, inspiring environments. The initiative also supports parents by highlighting the importance of reading and strengthening connections to local libraries.

Since its launch in 2018, Reading is Key has grown into a national movement. Today, more than 100 municipalities across Sweden actively implement the model – reaching tens of thousands of children each year.

Grounded in research and built on cross-sector collaboration, Reading is Key delivers measurable impact: increased reading engagement, strengthened reading confidence, and more equal opportunities for children to succeed in school and beyond.

By building strong reading habits early, Reading is Key helps equip the next generation with the tools to understand, participate in, and shape a democratic society.

We would love to share our experiences and invite you to be part of a journey driven by the joy of reading and strong reading engagement.

Please feel free to get in touch if you would like to learn more: lovisa@bonniersfamiljestiftelse.se