Harrogate International Festivals has once again teamed up with Transdev, which runs the Harrogate Bus Company, to bring a whole world of books to bus passengers.
Over the past few years, the arts charity has provided more than 1,000 novels to create mobile ‘libraries’ onboard Transdev’s 36 buses travelling on the Leeds-Harrogate-Ripon route.
The idea behind the popular on-board libraries is to encourage reading for pleasure and builds on a long-running partnership between the two organisations.
It also ties in with Harrogate International Festivals’ longstanding focus on providing arts opportunities for everyone.
Passengers on the 36 buses can take the books away and are encouraged to contribute one in return, creating an ever-changing supply of books.
Matt Burley, project and marketing manager at Transdev, said:
“We know from speaking to our customers that these mobile ‘libraries’ are hugely popular, which is why we are delighted to be part of this brilliant initiative.
"We all live busy lives but making time for reading is really beneficial and this is a great way of doing just that.”
Studies have shown that reading can reduce stress, stimulate the brain and boost relaxation.
One study, carried out by the University of Sussex, has revealed that just six minutes of reading can reduce stress levels by as much as 68 per cent.
Sharon Canavar, chief executive of Harrogate International Festivals, said:
“This initiative is something very close to our hearts because we know the joy and pleasure that comes from reading a good book – whether it’s a page-turning thriller, a gripping crime novel, or an inspiring memoir.
“We know, too, that reading can boost our wellbeing, improve sleep, reduce stress levels and help us develop empathy for others.
“There are so many benefits to reading and if just a few extra people get on board and pick up a new book, then we’ll be over the moon.”
Harrogate Brewing Co celebrates first anniversary on Royal Parade
Lightwater Valley set to introduce another new attraction
Harrogate to host new event for book lovers this weekend
Harrogate MP calls for crackdown on 'effectively decriminalised' phone thefts
Harrogate disability charity launches fundraising drive for new centre
Harrogate GP set to be elected town's new Mayor
Harrogate's Ibiza Symphonica drops Scott Mills from lineup
'Inspirational' schoolgirl donates hair to help children in need
Harrogate dog lovers invited to volunteer as puppy trainers
Police appeal after Harrogate man assaulted at home
Morrisons opens 'Asian Corner' at Harrogate store
New ward-based library introduced at Harrogate Hospital
Harrogate care home donates £1,000 to charity battling loneliness
Builders unearth medieval well in Ripon city centre
Knaresborough teacher to run London Marathon in aid of Henshaws
Drugs seized and two arrested in Knaresborough
Spiegeltent returns to Harrogate for summer extravaganza
Starbeck festival set to return for third year
Police appeal to locate Harrogate fuel thief
Harrogate MP set to take on London Marathon in aid of colitis charity
