THE LAUNCH of two Little Free Libraries in Baildon drew a crowd of support as stars from Bradford Bulls handed out books to young and old.

The scheme is designed to promote reading by giving easy free access to donated books safely stored in purpose-built sturdy wooden boxes.

The two large boxes will be filled with hundreds of titles to borrow. One box of children's books is placed by the Southcliffe Drive play area and another box for adults has been placed outside the Incommunities’ flats, adjacent to the play area.

The project has been developed by Baildon Community Link and Incommunities with the help of funding from Bradford Council’s Shipley Area Committee and the wooden boxes were made by some of Incommunities’ construction trainees.

The free community event on Thursday featured storytelling sessions organised by Baildon Library staff, poetry readings, a barbecue and some of the Bradford Bulls first team handing out free books.

The little libraries were formally unveiled at the event by the Deputy Lord Mayor, Councillor Roger L'Amie on what was also World Book Night when volunteers up and down the country gave out thousands of books in their communities.

"Literacy and reading should be seriously promoted and this was a fine example of a community working together," Cllr L'Amie said.

"Reading fulfils the Three Es - Educate, Empower and Entertain," he added.

Incommunities is supporting the project as part of its commitment to improving lives.

Helen Gibson, Director of Incommunities Neighbourhood Services, said: “As a socially-conscious housing provider we are committed to improving the lives of our residents and the communities they live in.

“We are delighted to be working with Baildon Community Link and Bradford Council on this new initiative. These little libraries are a brilliant way of promoting the joys of reading particularly among young people and helping improve literacy levels.”

"These book boxes are a great way of accessing lots of enjoyable titles on your doorstep. It is also a positive way of bringing residents together.”

Lucy Maddison, Centre Manager at Baildon Community Link, said: “Following on from a leaflet drop, two local people have put themselves forward as volunteers to keep an eye on the two little libraries which will be installed at Southcliffe Drive, which is really good news.

“An army of volunteers offered to support the community event on the day, helping to set up for the event and using their skills to run activities.

"Without their help this day would not have been possible. I’d like to thank everyone for making this event possible."