One of the most anticipated dates in the school calendar each year is World Book Day on Thursday 5th March! It is a celebration of stories, imagination and the life-changing power of reading. Organised by World Book Day, the charity’s mission is simple but powerful: to change lives through a love of books and reading.
Working closely with publishers, World Book Day creates a special selection of £1 books designed to appeal to children of all ages, abilities and interests. From picture books for early readers to exciting adventures and inspiring non-fiction for older children, the list ensures that every child can find something they enjoy. To make this possible, Book Tokens are distributed free of charge to primary schools, helping families access books in an affordable and inclusive way.
In Bedford, World Book Day is embraced with enthusiasm by schools, bookshops and community organisations alike. Children across the town look forward not only to choosing their book, but also to dressing up as their favourite literary characters – bringing beloved stories to life in classrooms and playgrounds.
Book tokens are primarily distributed to children via schools, nurseries, and pre-schools but there are also digital book tokens available on the world book day website.
Book Tokens can be exchanged for the official £1 World Book Day titles at participating town centre bookshops until 15th March 2026.
Where to Redeem Your Book Token in Bedford
Families can redeem their tokens at:
- Waterstones – The largest specialist bookshop in Bedford, offering an extensive range of children’s titles.
- Bedford Central Library- will be celebrating World Book Day as part of their Year of Reading.
- The Works – A popular store providing books for all ages, as well as activities, crafts and art materials.
- Lidl – Taking part in the scheme and supporting access to affordable reading.
- Local supermarkets such as Tesco, Morrisons and Sainsburys.
A highlight of the day for many children is dressing up as their favourite book character. From wizards and superheroes to classic storybook heroes, creativity fills Bedford’s schools. Families looking for costumes, face paints or accessories can visit Bellissima Accessories, which stocks fancy dress outfits, tiaras, masks, hats and party accessories.
World Book Day is about far more than a single day of celebration. It is about nurturing confidence, imagination and a lifelong habit of reading for pleasure. In Bedford, the combined efforts of schools, bookshops, local businesses and the library ensure that children from all backgrounds can access books and feel inspired to read.
By bringing the whole community together, World Book Day continues to make a meaningful difference, one book at a time.
