A Dumfries supermarket has launched a book donation and exchange station for children in the town.
Myra Smith, community champion at Morrisons, hopes the Little Library will promote reading and literacy in youngsters, particularly those of disadvantaged backgrounds.
She said: “Children, teenagers and parents can pick up books for free from our library and we are asking people in the town to bring along unwanted books to the store and donate them to the library. We’ll pass donated books on to schools and groups too.
“Morrisons has also created a new book – Cedric The Seed – and will be distributing copies to local community groups and schools to ensure they are reaching those who need them most.
“Inspired by the pandemic and how lives were changed in an instant, the book follows Cedric, a small sunflower seed, as he is separated from his family and friends.
“His journey is full of unexpected adventure, friendship and fun as when Cedric begins to grow, he realises his friends and family were there all along.
“If anyone would like a donation of books please let me know via email to champion.dumfries@morrisonsplc.co.uk.”
The National Literacy Trust recently reported that children who own books are six times more likely to read above the level expected for their age but that one in 11 disadvantaged children don’t own a single book.
