Your local library – libraries are jam-packed full of wonderful books; you’ll probably end up leaving with way more than you planned.
Friends and family – ask around to see if anyone has a book you’d like to borrow. You might be able to lend them one of yours in exchange.
Social media sites – more and more local groups are popping up on Facebook and other social media platforms that offer items for free. You can always list some of your used books or toys on these too.
Look out for free libraries set up by people in the community – these can pop up anywhere! We’ve seen them along canal towpaths, in telephone boxes, at bus stops...
There are free library organisations too – companies like Little Free Library provide libraries all over the world. They have quite a few in the UK and, if you have time for a project, they are always asking for more people to start new Little Free Libraries. Check out whether there are any near you at Take a Book. Share a Book. - Little Free Library
Morrisons Little Library – Morrisons Little Library was launched in 2022. You can take unwanted books to donate and/or pick up a book for free. All they ask is that you return them when you have finished reading.
Organise your own book swap – invite friends and family round for your own book swap. If you don’t want to host at home, you could meet in a café or at the park. Encourage everyone to bring along some books to swap, agree to give them back if they want. Enjoy a drink, snack, good company and new books!
Online books – there are several online companies who offer e-books for free. Have a search around if you think this could be an option for you. Many sites are Amercian and offer a variety of lesser-known books, but you might find a few hidden gems that are perfect for your toddler.