Time to Read launches 'Book Bingo' in north west libraries

People in the north west are being encouraged to use their libraries with a “Book Bingo” contest worth up to £200.

The game, launched by library partnership Time to Read, challenges players to read a book from five different categories on their bingo-style form. By doing so, they can complete a straight line on their sheet and enter a free regional prize draw for the chance to win the £200 main prize or a £100 regional one.

There are 25 categories to choose from, ranging from genres like biography to challenges like “re-read a book you love” or “chosen with your eyes closed”.

Copies of the Book Bingo sheet are available in 340 libraries stretching from Carlisle to Chester and the Wirral to Rochdale, covering all of Greater Manchester and Merseyside.

Ian Anstice, strategic lead for Time to Read, said the scheme was inspired by a similar contest at Ripon Library in north Yorkshire.

He said: “Bingo is a familiar and friendly concept for everyone so there’s not much explanation involved and is an easy promotion to sell. It’s hoped that it will get people talking about the books they’ve read as part of it and share their discoveries with others. Feedback from branches has been great, with an enthusiastic take-up already being reported”

Time to Read is a partnership of local authority library services in the north west sharing projects and promotions to boost adult reading and use of library facilities. Other events it organises, including murder mysteries, local history talks and author visits, can be found on its website.