Coventry Book Bank almost 13,000 donations since January

A woman who collected books to distribute to schools in Coventry said she had collected almost 13,000 since the start of January.

Maeve Walsh, also known as the Reading Doctor, started the book bank to ensure that children could have access to books and take them home.

The education consultant said he had contacted about 16 schools, but knew there were many more to contact.

“I will never say no to books,” she said, adding that she plans to continue after being inspired by the children she has helped.

She said she collected books from the community and then donated them to schools in the city, dropping off more than 1,000 at Frederick Bird Academy on Thursday.

“When it started my intention was to have a small library of about 100 books,” she said.

“The first night I started collecting, which was January 11, we had about 400 books and now we’re approaching 13,000 books which have been collected across the city and have gone directly to schools again,” Ms Walsh said .

She said she was very proud but felt she was still “scratching the surface”.

“There are so many schools we haven’t even talked to yet that I know would appreciate the books.

“I’ve had parents contact me saying their child came home really excited,” she said, adding: “It’s just been music to my heart, so it’s an inspiration to keep going.”

Mrs Holden from Frederick Bird Academy said she welcomed the huge donation of books.

“We are so, so grateful. We can’t believe Maeve’s generosity.

“The fact that every child in our school is going home tonight with a free gift is brilliant.”