The annual event saw hundreds of children pass through the doors of the Constables’ Office in St Peter Port.
Families were invited to drop in, browse, and choose from a mass of children’s books, all in good condition and suitable for ages 0 to 18, and all completely free.
President Sue Robillard said the initiative supported both the global mission of Soroptimist International – to improve the lives of women and girls – but also the island’s commitment to literacy, learning, and community.
‘It is definitely not a fundraiser – it’s all about giving books away to encourage children to read. The aim is to have nothing left by 4pm,’ she said.
‘Our three main aims are to educate, enable and empower. Obviously reading is so important for education and to give the young opportunities, but it is also such a great leisure activity too. Getting that love of books and reading at a young age, especially with all the distractions of the modern world, is so important, which is why we have books for babies too.’
On offer were picture books, well-known authors and traditional tales, as well as early readers, chapter books, and young adult titles, ensuring that there was something for everyone.
All the books were donated from members or are good quality ones bought from charity shops.
The annual event occurs each year at the first Saturday after World Book Day, and although most of the children scrutinising the books on offer were of primary school age, Mrs Robilliard – whose favourite book growing up was Little Women – said there were quite a few teenagers passing through too.
‘Some of our members went into Bright Beginnings on the day to do some readings and give some books away, and it is event we try and get behind every year,’ she said.
‘We have been holding this event for many years but this is our first time at the Constables’ Office, which is such a lovely central location and big enough to show the books we have to offer, so a big thank you to them for letting us use the space.’
Among those choosing and perusing the books were siblings George and Ella Crowson, aged six and three, respectively.
Mum Zane had found out about the event through Ella’s pre-school.
‘It’s not often you get something for free,’ she said.
‘It is such a brilliant idea to encourage the kids to read. It’s important to give the kids that love of reading when they are young. Better a book than an iPad.’
George had selected four books: Angry Ninja, Mr Tickle, Birthday Boy and a Ben 10 book.
‘I think I will like all of them. My favourite book is DogBoy by Dav Pilkey, who wrote Captain Underpants.
‘I like funny stories and adventures too.’