Netflix has officially partnered with the British Library to support reading and adapt literary works into popular films and series.
Netflix has announced a partnership with the British Library to foster literary appreciation by connecting books to their film and series adaptations. This initiative was reported by Variety on September 21, 2026, aiming to help audiences discover the literary works behind celebrated adaptations.
As part of their commitment, Netflix will donate collections of books adapted into their productions to 100 public libraries across the United Kingdom. Notable titles included in this donation are "Frankenstein," "Pride and Prejudice," "Heartstopper," "One Day," "The Thursday Murder Club," and "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory." This strategy coincides with the National Year of Reading in 2026, aimed at addressing the decline in reading for pleasure across the country.
In addition to donations, Netflix and the British Library will host a series of events streamed to local libraries nationwide. These programs will provide insights into the adaptation process, featuring Q&A sessions with actors involved in various adaptations. Notable figures from recent discussions include Florence Pugh, Zoe Kazan, Christopher Abbott, and Mike Faist discussing the adaptation of "East of Eden." Anne Mensah, Vice President of Content, U.K. at Netflix, emphasized the partnership's aim of enhancing access and appreciation for both literature and its adaptations.
The initiative also includes dedicated funding from Netflix to support the British Library's conservation efforts and literary archives. Helen Schulte, the British Library's head of culture programmes, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing its potential to introduce Netflix's literary adaptations to new audiences while assisting conservation efforts.
This collaboration comes at a critical moment, as the 2025 Annual Literacy Survey from the U.K. National Literacy Trust indicated a decline in children's enjoyment of reading to its lowest recorded levels. The survey highlighted that adaptations linked to popular films and series could encourage reluctant readers. Insights from Nielsen BookData revealed that 12% of adult fiction purchases by occasional readers stemmed from discovering books through film or television adaptations.
The partnership represents a strategic effort to reignite interest in reading by leveraging popular adapted content. It offers a structured approach to connect viewers with the literary works that inspired their favorite shows and films.
This partnership enhances the visibility of both classic and contemporary literary works in public libraries, while promoting cultural dialogue around adaptations. By integrating literary donations with engaging programming, Netflix and the British Library aim to cultivate an ecosystem that encourages reading, fosters creativity, and connects generations through shared stories.
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