Bookshop.org launches new charitable initiative ‘Read It Forward’ with BookTrust

Bookshop.org has launched a new charitable initiative with BookTrust, called "Read It Forward", where 10% of every sale of a children’s book made in February will be donated to the charity, while also supporting independent bookshops.

Launching on the first day of the month, in time for half-term, the month-long initiative aims to encourage parents, teachers, guardians and educators to consider purchasing books from Bookshop.org. The goal is to "inspire a love of reading" in children, with the money raised by the Bookshop.org drive going towards BookTrust’s work of getting children reading—especially those from low-income families or vulnerable backgrounds.

Lizzie Catford, director of Children’s Books at BookTrust, said: "We’re thrilled to partner with Bookshop.org on the Read it Forward initiative, a wonderful opportunity for readers to make a meaningful impact. This collaboration not only supports independent bookshops, vital pillars of our literary community, but also contributes directly to our mission of fostering a love of reading among children, particularly those facing challenges.

"At BookTrust, we believe in the transformative power of shared reading, and the funds raised through this initiative will support our vital work across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. This wonderful partnership emphasises the collective strength of readers, booksellers and charities in building a brighter reading future for all children." 

Nicole Vanderbilt, managing director of Bookshop.org UK, added: “This February, you can feel even better about buying books online. We are incredibly excited to launch a charitable book drive with BookTrust, marking our first collaboration with them. This month, we are giving parents and educators one more reason to buy books from Bookshop.org.

"In addition to supporting independent booksellers across the UK, this month we will be donating 10% of each children’s book sale to BookTrust, contributing to their mission to develop a love of reading.”