It’s here at long last, today is World Book Day! Celebrated on the first Thursday of March each year, it celebrates books, authors, stories and most importantly, reading. In fact, this is the biggest celebration of its kind, designated by UNESCO as a worldwide celebration of books and reading, and marked in over 100 countries all over the world. In a typical year, lots of schools invite children to swap the formal uniform for their favourite book character – Please do share your children’s best characters with us on socials!

In the UK and Ireland, National Book Tokens are sent out so that children can find a book of their very own – something to unlock the power of their minds in a way that the increasing use of digital screens may not provide. As well as National Book Tokens being sent to children, there is a range of £1 books available to buy in thousands of bookshops and supermarkets. This year, a selection of free audiobooks is also on offer.

Is your School Fundraising for World Book Day?

Across the country, every year many schools fundraise as part of the World Book Day celebrations. Last year, thanks to the efforts of these schools, Book Aid were able to send 47,335 books to the people who need them most. 

The need for a day promoting reading in children is greater than ever. The National Literacy Trust has reported that in 2020 only a quarter of children read daily (26 percent of the population) compared to 43 percent in 2015.

Access to books is vital for children’s futures. As Independent Usborne Booksellers, Elementa uses all commission made from sales to further support Schools with reading and other education. Visit our Usborne Bookshop by clicking here.