Bookbanks brings books to food banks.
We work closely with food banks, using books and trained book professionals to create spaces for conversation, inspiration and community.
‘If you haven't got money, but you have a book, the book is knowledge and knowledge is good.’
Yusuf, Bookbanks guest
‘Books, for me, have been a signpost to think for myself, and give me the impunity to imagine and to face my inner anger and fear. But they also give me a hope, and an understanding that I’m not alone.’
David, Bookbanks guest
‘These books are so uplifting. They've helped me a lot.’
Brianna, Bookbanks guest
Over 3 % of UK individuals (2.3 million people) are using food banks
More than 1 in 12 UK children do not have a single book of their own.
A DWP study demonstrates that being read to at the age of 5 is “an important protective factor against poverty at the age of 30”.
Bookbanks works to break the cycle of poverty.
Bookbanks partners with existing food banks to create enticing pop-up stalls of books on site - free for guests to browse, borrow or keep. The books are donated by organisations such as bookshops, libraries, prizes and publishers; some are also given by individuals, including food bank guests.
The Bookbanks stalls are staffed by volunteers with professional experience in the book industry, who have a passion for books and widening access to them.
Bookbanks also hosts regular events, including author readings and writing workshops, further transforming food banks into spaces for conversation, inspiration, literacy and community.
Why Bookbanks?
100%
Our Impact
‘This bookbank means that I own a book I wouldn’t have bought otherwise.’
4,000+
books distributed
90%
‘This bookbank has encouraged me to spend more time reading with my children.’
‘Bookbanks’ mission has had a transformational effect on our visitors' self-esteem.’
Arnie McConnell, founder of Wymondham Community Outreach Project foodbank.
‘Even when I’m really busy and worry I can’t fit my shift in, I make time for it and am so glad to be there. Afterwards, I come out buzzing!’
Ed, Bookbanks volunteer
‘I had a wonderful afternoon reading from Truth or Dare and chatting to a group of lovely people. There were some insightful questions!’
Nadia K Barb, author at a Bookbanks event
