Barnsley Book Festival is back for 2026, with authors, talks, and workshops to celebrate the joy of reading

Barnsley Libraries are excited to announce the return of the fantastic Barnsley Book Festival, running from Saturday 14 February to Saturday 7 March.

Now gearing up for its third year, the festival promises a three-week-long celebration of reading, creativity, and storytelling for the whole community.

Taking place during the National Year of Reading, next year’s festival will once again feature an inspiring programme of authors, poets, writers, and artists. There’s so much to look forward to in a programme full of exciting talks, workshops, and special appearances, with highlights including:

• Family favourites Lydia Monks and Abie Longstaff, international best-selling children’s authors and illustrators, who’ll be leading workshops and book signings during February half-term.
• Greg Jenner, acclaimed historian, author and comedian (Horrible Histories, You’re Dead to Me podcast), who’ll be holding an event not to be missed for adults at Barnsley Civic.
• Insightful talks from local historian Brian Elliot and Barnsley-born Egyptologist Professor Joann Fletcher.
• The return of LiveWire, offering an evening of powerful spoken word performances.

We’ll be releasing the full line-up and programme soon – make sure you’re following our Barnsley Book Festival Facebook page to keep up to date, as well as signing up to the Barnsley Libraries newsletter for news and updates around our libraries and events.

Cllr Wendy Cain, Cabinet Spokesperson for Communities and Public Health, said: “We’re thrilled to be bringing Barnsley Book Festival back for 2026. After two fantastic years the festival has become a beloved highlight of our events calendar, and we’re excited to bring even more authors, workshops, and activities to our communities next year. Whether you’re a lifelong reader, a family looking for half-term activities, or simply curious about books and storytelling, there’ll be something for everyone to enjoy.”

Barnsley Book Festival is supported using public funding from the Arts Council England as part of Barnsley Libraries’ National Portfolio Organisation activity.