Swindon has been selected as the new home for Book Aid International, a leading global charity working to expand access to books and learning. The move aligns closely with Swindon Borough Council’s mission to improve literacy and learning opportunities across the town.
Councillor Jim Robbins, Leader of Swindon Borough Council, visited the charity’s newly opened warehouse in Cheney Manor to see the scale of its operation and meet the team responsible for its global outreach.
Book Aid International supplies more than one million brand-new books each year, reaching an estimated 21 million readers worldwide. Its Swindon warehouse, which became fully operational in October, already holds over 350,000 books.
The relocation is expected to significantly expand the charity’s capacity, enabling it to process more donated books and support an even wider range of education projects across the globe. A new team of local staff and volunteers is already in place to help power the charity’s work from its Swindon base.
Alison Tweed, Chief Executive of Book Aid International, said:
“We were delighted to welcome Councillor Robbins to our new warehouse in Swindon. This move has already strengthened our ability to reach readers who have few opportunities to access books, and our new team is working hard to prepare shipments for our partners across the world. Swindon has given us a warm welcome and we look forward to becoming an active part of the community.”
Councillor Robbins added:
“Seeing Book Aid International’s work taking place here in Swindon was inspiring. Literacy is a vital skill that opens doors for young people and helps create opportunities for everyone, which is central to our vision for a fairer Swindon.
“The charity’s decision to expand here shows real confidence in our town and supports our Swindon Plan commitment to attract new investment, create good jobs and strengthen our local economy. I’m proud that this global effort to improve access to books and learning is being driven from right here in Swindon.”
