Libraries Connected is pleased to support the launch of 'ReadOn', a new app developed by librarians from London Libraries that takes inspiration from the 'Couch to 5k' fitness plan to get people reading more.

ReadOn uses curated recommendations, reading challenges, interactive quizzes and personalised reading plans to gradually make reading a regular part of users’ lives.

Aimed at Londoners who would like to read more, ReadOn is a digital gateway to a universe of books, crafted with care by the very librarians who bring London's public libraries to life. It has been designed to inspire, challenge, and support readers not only to increase the number of books they read, but to widen the range of genres, authors and styles they enjoy.

ReadOn’s integrated map feature means users can easily find their nearest London library to discover new books and authors, attend literary events and connect with fellow book lovers.

The app has been launched just in time for the summer holidays, when people tend to read more to relax. The team behind ReadOn hope the app can turn the traditional beach read into a year-round habit, with all the benefits that brings. Research has shown that reading for pleasure can reduce feelings of stress and depression, increase self-esteem and improve our ability to cope with difficult situations. Adults who read for just 30 minutes a week are 20% more likely to report greater life satisfaction.

The app was made possible by funding from the LibraryOn grant programme. Supported by Arts Council England and facilitated by the British Library, the LibraryOn 2023 grant fund enabled library services to boost their digital presence and enhance their discoverability for new and existing users.

ReadOn was developed by Novellic, a London-based team experienced in crafting reader-facing mobile apps for publishers and book charities. Their self-titled flagship book club app also powers the book recommendations in the Read On app.

Rachel Levy, Head of Barbican & Community Libraries, who led the project for London Libraries, said:

We know that many people really want to read more but feel they don’t have the time or get distracted. ReadOn is there to hold your hand as you gradually increase the number and range of books that you read with realistic, achievable goals. Whether you’re an avid reader who needs a little motivation to get through that to-be-read pile or someone who hasn’t picked up a book in years, we want Read On to revive the joy of reading in the digital age.

Tiina Hill, LibraryOn, Head of Delivery, said:

The LibraryOn 2023 grant programme supported digital projects in libraries that help users to discover what their local library offers more easily. ReadOn does this brilliantly through through-provoking challenges and quizzes, it also boosts the digital capability of London libraries and creates an innovative way for new and existing users to engage with their library online. We’re also delighted that the LibraryOn map has been integrated into the app and will help users find recommended books in their nearest library.

Candide Kirk, founder of Novellic, said:

We were thrilled to get involved with this project. We could immediately spot how the unique features that the librarians had identified would complement existing reader tools, and how our experience building bookish apps meant we could deliver a quality reader experience to achieve that vision. We are particularly proud to be powering the book recommendations on ReadOn directly from our flagship Novellic app, where years of expertise and reader input have built up a matching system that helps even the most reluctant reader discover their preferred genres and book titles.