World Read Aloud Day 2026 – Call for Self-Published Volunteers

It’s that time of year again! World Read Aloud Day 2026 is just around the corner, and I’m happy to once again be coordinating the self-published published author and illustrator volunteers.

World Read Aloud Day is February 4, 2026! This is a wonderful day for educators or librarians have a volunteer do a FREE virtual visit with your group on this day.

In order to volunteer for World Read Aloud Day, your book(s) must be written for kids (teens and younger). No adult books please! Any books containing hate speech, discriminatory language, or messages/themes that contradict LitWorld’s mission of diversity and inclusion will not be accepted. To be clear, I will not include books that are racist, anti-LGBTQ+, or sexist on this list.

WRAD virtual visits are not elaborate or time-consuming to plan. Your presentation should last 10-15 and should go something like this:

1-2 minutes: Author gives a quick introduction & talks a little about their books.
3-5 minutes: Author reads aloud a short picture book, or a short excerpt from a chapter book/novel
5-10 minutes: Author answers a few questions from students about reading/writing
1-2 minutes: Author book-talks a couple books they love (but didn’t write!) as recommendations

If you are self-published /non-traditionally published, you can sign up here and fill out the form: WRAD 2026 – Call for Self-Published Volunteers

Once you sign up, I will be in touch to confirm that you have been approve for inclusion on the list.

(Traditionally published authors and illustrators: you may sign up on the list coordinated by author Kate Messner. More info at her blog: https://katemessner.com/getting-ready-for-world-read-aloud-day-2026/ )

TEACHERS & LIBRARIANS: In a few weeks, the list of volunteers will be made public for you to see who is available to join your group. Check back soon!

For more info, visit the WRAD website: https://www.litworld.org/learn-more-about-wrad