Cumberland Council is delighted to announce that award-winning crime and thriller writer M.W. Craven has been appointed as the Cumberland Libraries Ambassador for 2026 as part of the UK wide movement, The National Year of Reading.
The National Year of Reading 2026 marks one of the most ambitious literacy campaigns in a generation, encouraging people everywhere to (re)discover the joy of reading.
Born and based in Cumbria, M.W. Craven is best known for his internationally acclaimed Washington Poe series. With multiple awards to his name and a rapidly growing readership, he is now recognised as one of the UK’s most celebrated and best-selling crime authors.
As Cumberland Libraries Ambassador, M.W. Craven will work closely with libraries across the county throughout the year, hosting events and supporting initiatives that encourage people to read more - whether seasoned readers or those finding their way back to books.
The programme will launch with a special event on Thursday 26 March at Whitehaven Library, celebrating the release of the paperback edition of his latest Poe and Bradshaw novel, The Final Vow.
The evening will include an author talk and Q&A session, giving fans the chance to engage with Mike and have their books signed. Light refreshments will be provided. This event is expected to sell out, and tickets can be booked via this link.
M.W. Craven said:
“As a long-time library user, I’m thrilled to be supporting the National Year of Reading as the Cumberland Libraries Reading Ambassador. Reading for pleasure, at any age, is so important to our understanding of the world, our community and each other”
Cumberland Councillor Anne Quilter, Executive Member for Vibrant and Healthy Places, said:
“We are thrilled to welcome M.W. Craven as our Libraries Ambassador for the National Year of Reading. Libraries are free, inclusive community spaces that play a vital role in improving wellbeing, confidence and educational attainment. Having a local, world-class author championing reading will help inspire more people across Cumberland to engage with their libraries and rediscover the joy of reading.”
Cumberland’s libraries offer far more than book borrowing alone, serving as welcoming community hubs that provide access to learning, culture, events and support for people of all ages.
For the latest updates and future announcements, follow Cumberland Libraries on social media.