Queen Camilla Launched National Year of Reading at National Library of Scotland
Queen Camilla visited the National Library of Scotland to launch the National Year of Reading 2026, where she met authors and children participating in a Beano Studios workshop.
Queen Camilla visited the National Library of Scotland in Edinburgh on January 21, 2026 to launch the National Year of Reading 2026 - an initiative aimed at promoting reading across the United Kingdom.
Queen Camilla arriving at the National Library of Scotland. Photo: The British Royal Family
Upon arrival, Her Majesty was greeted by representatives from the National Literacy Trust and the library's leadership. The Queen was given a tour where she viewed items on display for the library's 100th anniversary.
Children participating in the Beano Studios drawing workshop. Photo: The British Royal Family
Queen Camilla was presented with a specially created Beano comic strip featuring herself as the main character - a unique memento from the visit.
The Queen meeting famous Scottish authors. Photo: The British Royal Family
Queen Camilla has long been a champion for reading and literacy. She founded The Queen's Reading Room in 2021, which promotes books and reading through social media and a dedicated podcast.
The specially created Beano comic strip featuring Queen Camilla as the main character. Photo: The British Royal Family
Queen Camilla arriving at the National Library of Scotland. Photo: The British Royal Family
Upon arrival, Her Majesty was greeted by representatives from the National Literacy Trust and the library's leadership. The Queen was given a tour where she viewed items on display for the library's 100th anniversary.
Beano Studios Workshop for Children
During the visit, children from local schools participated in a drawing workshop organized by Beano Studios, which is celebrating the 75th anniversary of Dennis the Menace this year. The children learned to draw the iconic character from professional artists.
Children participating in the Beano Studios drawing workshop. Photo: The British Royal Family
Queen Camilla was presented with a specially created Beano comic strip featuring herself as the main character - a unique memento from the visit.
Reception with Famous Authors
After the tour, Her Majesty attended a reception where she met renowned Scottish authors, including crime writers Sir Ian Rankin and Val McDermid, as well as poet Jackie Kay.
The Queen meeting famous Scottish authors. Photo: The British Royal Family
Queen Camilla has long been a champion for reading and literacy. She founded The Queen's Reading Room in 2021, which promotes books and reading through social media and a dedicated podcast.
The specially created Beano comic strip featuring Queen Camilla as the main character. Photo: The British Royal Family