Time to read: Let's set the first world record for reading

Ministry of Education and Culture On 1st April, a national reading project was launched, encouraging children and adults to use the time available under the current circumstances for reading.

We encourage the residents of Hafnarfjörður and friends of Hafnarfjörður to take an active part.

Reading is particularly important for children, as their academic success is largely determined by their reading comprehension, which in turn improves with more reading. For adults, reading provides a stimulating escape from the hustle and bustle and worries of daily life, and by reading, we collectively strengthen the Icelandic language. Vocabulary grows, new ideas are sparked, comprehension of the text improves, and with it, our understanding of the world. Increased reading also supports the creative work of authors and translators. The more we read, the better!

Reading time – let's log all reading. www.timitiladlesa.is  

The reading project is called Time to read. The name is derived from the current situation, where many people have more time than before to read and the need for mental exercise has seldom been greater. Progress is measured in time, as Icelanders are encouraged to log all their reading on the website. Read the timetable. There, participants can also follow the nation's collective reading day by day. Over the next four weeks, a variety of information about reading will be collected there, along with ideas for reading material for different age groups, and motivational videos from authors and others telling us what and where they enjoy reading.

The project runs until 30th April – together we can set a world record!

The project will run until 30th April and after that, we will try to get the result entered into the Guinness Book of World Records. Such a feat has never been attempted before, and would therefore be the first world record of its kind. The record could become a benchmark for other nations, or for us to better ourselves over time. The project's branding and appearance are designed with this goal in mind, as the intention is to harness the nation's competitive spirit. The project's logo is similar to that of sports clubs, competition jerseys will be awarded to successful participants at the end of the project, and partnerships will be sought far and wide to involve as many people as possible. 

If successful, the project could become a fine testament to the book-loving nation of Icelanders!

Reading is the game of life!