Hidden treasures
Hiding books for others to find is a wonderful way of spreading the joy of reading and also to introduce people to genres that perhaps they wouldn't usually.
With the cost of living crisis, treating yourself to a new book is becoming a luxury that few can afford, and with many libraries closing down in smaller towns or having reduced hours, it can be difficult to get your hands on a book to read.
It has been widely reported previously that there is a decrease in the amount of children having a book to read at home. The National Literacy Trust recorded that 1 in 14 children and young people aged 8-18 years in 2023 said that they do not have their own book to read at home.
Some wonderful people out there are aware of this and try to help tackle this issue by hiding books for people to find, read and share with others. By doing this, some children have found new books they enjoy and seek similar books to read. Even adults have been finding books and commented on how it has been a gift they really needed!
One such group, based in the UK, is Bench books. After realising their love of books ended up with piles and piles of read books in a fantastic condition that could be read by others. A children's author themselves, the founder of Bench Books decided to take their own spin on book hiding by wrapping books with the mantra "reading is a gift" and leaving them on benches out and about in local parks for people to find.
All that is asked in return is that the finder wraps the book and hides it once they have read it, letting the Bench Book team know on Facebook.
There are many similar initiatives out there, including free libraries and book exchanges, helping to make reading more accessible to others.
Have you ever found a hidden book which led you to read something new
Check out these initiatives :
Search Facebook for Bench Books and Sweet Carolines Hidden Book Adventure
www.judeandthebookfactory.co.uk
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