Inspired by the book crossing project, where books are left in public places to be picked up, read and then “released” again, we have decided to launch our own version. You may have seen the press coverage during the first week of the holidays, announcing books on the move. Members of the committee have collected two hundred books, labelled and numbered them and are in the process of distributing them around Ipswich and beyond. As well as a books on the move label each book also has a sticker inside saying take me, read me, leave me somewhere new, an identification number and a request to send comments and details of where found and left to a contact address. The initial wave of books contains stamped addressed postcards to encourage a response – we would really like to know where the books end up!

Our chairperson, Pauline Brown, suggested the idea, as a fun way to promote books and reading to as many children as possible. Titles cover all ages from babies to teenagers. The books will be left in places children visit, including sports centres, swimming pools, cafes, and hospital, doctor and dentists waiting rooms. It is hoped the books will travel far and wide, maybe even abroad.

At the end of the summer, we will look at how it has worked and decide on the next step, hopefully to invite members to start “releasing” books as well! There will also be a piece in the Federation newsletter, to encourage book groups around the country to take up the idea.

Written by Jayne Gould

To contact Ipswich Children's Book Group please email: icbg@hotmail.co.uk