Inclusive Books for Children (IBC), the new charity that exists to make inclusive books mainstream, launches a new national book-gifting scheme called the IBC Book Box.
The UK-wide initiative, available to all state primary schools and community libraries, aims to increase access to inclusive books for the children who would benefit most from them. The free curated book box offers a wide selection of engaging, high-quality, inclusive books for young readers.
All applicants, whether successful or not, will gain access to a host of free resources, including:
- a series of short videos with expert guidance on sharing inclusive books with children
- an exclusive invitation to a live virtual author and illustrator event
- downloadable instructions on making the most of the IBC website
Every month from September 2024, IBC will select one eligible school or community library to receive a book box filled with 100 inclusive books suitable for ages 2 to 12, all recommended by the IBC expert review panel. By the end of their first book-gifting year, IBC will have reached 12 schools with 1,200 new, inclusive children’s books.
Marcus Satha, co-founder of IBC said: ‘We’re so excited to roll out the IBC Book Box and get these stories directly into the hands of children. Many schools and libraries are under intense financial strain, and their existing book provision often shows a worrying lack of diverse and inclusive texts. Our book-gifting scheme is just one of the ways we hope we can help them and young readers find fun, engaging stories that accurately represent their world.’
Applications are welcome from state primary schools and community libraries. One application per school or library is permitted and the application must come from a lead/senior member of staff. The application window opens at 09:00 on Wednesday 12 June 2024 and closes at 23:59 on Wednesday 10 July 2024 (BST).
To apply for an IBC Book Box click here.