Free Books
Anyone can take a book for free at a Free or Donate bookstall.
Please note that resellers are not allowed to take free books. Some bookstalls may limit the number of books you can take, if they feel it's necessary.
Alternatively, you can donate any amount you think is fair to the nominated charity.
Free book swap
You are also welcome to swap books for free, just as you would at any "Take a Book, Leave a Book" free book exchange or community book sharing box.
Please leave a book that's at least equal in quality to any book you take, so that your swap won't have a negative impact on donations to charity.
It's also fine to take a book for free and return it after you've read it.
Supporting local businesses
There is no need to feel guilty about taking a free book!
Bookstalls raise money for charity, but they also support local businesses. Your free book is a reward for buying a coffee, or anything else the venue sells.
Increasing access to free books
Free or Donate bookstalls increase access to free books.
Volunteers who run bookstalls are also encouraged to provide free books to local foodbanks, homeless shelters and anywhere else where they are most needed.
Why free books are important
Many people with a low income have limited access to books.
Reading has proven physical and mental health benefits, so free books are a great way to support people who are disadvantaged or in financial crisis.
This is especially important for children. A 2022 survey by the National Literacy Trust found that nearly 1 in 5 children aged 5 to 8 don’t have a single book of their own at home.