Tasmanians embrace reading in the 2025 Warm Winter Read

Libraries Tasmania has wrapped up the inaugural Warm Winter Read, a campaign that brought the state’s Lifting Literacy Strategy to life by inspiring adults to make reading a regular part of their winter routine.

Running from 1 July to 31 August, the campaign saw more than 400 library members register online.

Collectively, participants read for 13,560 days and submitted over 1,000 book reviews.

More than 720 people also joined Warm Winter Read events in libraries across Tasmania, including 20 author talks featuring nine Tasmanian writers.

Minister for Education, Jo Palmer, congratulated the four statewide winners from Rosny, Devonport, Ulverstone and St Helens libraries, each taking home an eReader or headphones, as well as the 32 regional winners who received book vouchers and reading hampers.

“The Warm Winter Read is a wonderful example of how we’re bringing Tasmania’s Lifting Literacy Strategy to life,” Minister Palmer said.

“Our Government is delivering for Tasmania with our focus on lifting literacy across the State.

“By encouraging Tasmanians to make reading a regular part of their winter routine, whether for five minutes or five hours, Libraries Tasmania is helping to build a culture of lifelong learning and improve literacy outcomes across the state.”

Feedback from participants highlighted the campaign’s impact:

• “The Warm Winter Read kick-started my joy of books again.”
• “It’s been so great to participate ... and has inspired me to start my own book club!”
• “It made me more reflective about my reading habits and gave me extra encouragement to keep picking up books.”

The Warm Winter Read was hosted by Libraries Tasmania in partnership with Public Libraries Victoria.

The Tasmanian Government encourages everyone to start their reading journey, make connections and discover something new through our libraries.

To find the nearest local library and explore the eLibrary, visit the Libraries Tasmania website.