Slovenia launches initiatives to promote reading culture

Slovenia is launching several initiatives to promote reading culture and address declining literacy levels. The national initiative ‘Reading on Prescription’ (Branje na recept), a collaboration between Mladinska knjiga and healthcare professionals, aims to raise awareness about the importance of reading for cognitive development and mental well-being. Experts note that excessive digital device use has contributed to attention disorders and lower literacy rates among both children and adults.

Additionally, the ninth National Month of Shared Reading will take place from September 8 to October 11, 2026. Under the theme ‘Reading is Joy’ (Branje je veselje), the campaign seeks to reframe reading as a pleasurable experience rather than just a functional necessity for school or work. The program includes the ‘10 minutes for reading’ initiative, which encourages individuals of all ages—including students, parents, and employees—to dedicate brief periods to reading to foster a lifelong habit.