In commemoration of International Literacy Day, the National Library and Information System Authority (NALIS) brought the joy and importance of reading directly to children across Trinidad and Tobago with a series of special readings at public libraries on September 15 and 16, 2026.

The initiative saw several Members of Parliament (MP) and other special guests giving of their time to visit libraries across the country and read books by local authors to over 440 primary school students. The programme was designed to encourage a love of reading, promote local literature and remind children of the important role that libraries play in learning and lifelong development.

The Members of Parliament who participated and the libraries they read at included: the Honourable Barry Padarath - Port of Spain Children’s Library; the Honourable Wilfred Nicholas Morris - Rio Claro Public Library; Dr the Honourable Michael Dowlath – San Fernando Public Library; the Honourable Jearlean John -  Couva Public Library; the Honourable Roodal Moonilal, - Debe Public Library; the Honourable David Thomas - Roxborough and Charlotteville public libraries; the Honourable Joel Sampson - Scarborough Library Facility; the Honourable Penelope Beckles-Robinson – Arima Public Library; the Honourable Camille Robinson-Regis – Maloney Public Library, and the Honourable Symon de Nobriga – Diego Martin Public Library.

The readings created opportunities for students to interact with national leaders in a relaxed and engaging environment, while discovering stories and works written by authors from Trinidad and Tobago.

NALIS also partnered with members of the Community Relations Committee of the Power Generation Company of Trinidad and Tobago Limited (PowerGen). Their members participated in readings at the Couva, Debe and Siparia public libraries. Their involvement reinforced the importance of corporate citizenship and community engagement in supporting literacy and education.