Lab to lend its backing to children’s book appeal once again

The Derby City Lab will once again be accepting donations of children’s books in support of an appeal organised by Derby Book Festival.

The lab is backing the Children’s Book Appeal by acting as a drop-off point for previously loved, but now unwanted, children’s books between 9 and 15 November.

Every donated book will be given to less fortunate children in the city who may not have books at home.

The latest appeal has been organised to coincide with the festival’s Autumn Edition, which takes place from 12 to 15 November.

It calls on people to donate unwanted pre-loved children’s books at various donation points around the city, including Derby City Lab, which is based in the Market Hall.

Since it was first launched, the Children’s Book Appeal has proven a massive success.

Earlier this year, the appeal took in more than 6,000 books during Derby Book Festival’s Summer Edition.

Adam Rodgers, inward investment executive at Marketing Derby and Derby City Lab lead, said: “Derby City Lab is delighted to once again act as a collection point for the latest Children’s Book Appeal.

“Since it was first launched, the appeal has helped provide thousands of free books to children who might otherwise go without.

“Everyone should be able to experience the joy of reading – and we’re very proud to be playing our part in making that happen here in Derby.”

Derby Book Festival, which is funded by the University of Derby and Arts Council England, as well as with sponsorship from several local businesses and individuals, works with local schools, nurseries, libraries and other organisations to distribute the books to families who would welcome them at home.

The only criteria is that the books should be in good condition to be passed on.

Liz Fothergill, patron of Derby Book Festival, said: “We work closely with schools in the city to support the development of a love of books and reading and our festival activities, including our annual Meet the Author events, sponsored by Cosy, support this.

“We know that not every child is lucky enough to have books at home and by making this appeal we hope to give every child in the city a book to take home to cherish.”

As well as Derby City Lab, a number of local businesses and organisations will be acting as drop-off points.

They include Derbion, QUAD, the University of Derby, Wathall’s, Morley Hayes and Derby Mickleover Hotel.

Derby Museums, Chapel Street Arts Centre and St Peter’s Church will also be hosting book appeal collections during Derby Book Festival events.

To view a full list of opening times for drop-offs, click here.

For more information about Derby City Lab, including opening times, click here.