Book Aid International, a global book charity, has established a significant new distribution hub in Swindon, marking a key development in the town’s efforts to support literacy and education.
The charity, which distributes over one million new books annually to communities with limited access to reading materials, opened a major warehouse in Cheney Manor. Fully operational since October, the facility now holds more than 350,000 books ready for shipment to educational projects abroad.
Councillor Jim Robbins, Leader of Swindon Borough Council, visited the site to observe operations and meet the staff managing the hub. The move aligns with the Council’s ongoing commitment to improving literacy across the Borough.
Book Aid International says the new location will enable it to handle a greater volume of donated books, expand its distribution capacity, and support more schools, libraries, and learning programmes internationally. Local staff and volunteers have already been recruited to support operations.
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 commented on the charity’s impact in the town:
“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 am proud that this global effort to improve access to books and learning is being driven from right here in Swindon.”
Book Aid International estimates that its work annually enables around 21 million people to read. The new Swindon warehouse will play a central role in scaling up that mission.
