IN CELEBRATION of World Book Day on March 6, re3 is launching a re3read Book Reuse Scheme.
The initiative promotes the reuse of second-hand books within the local community by providing free access to books at its recycling centres.
Re3 representatives said: “We’re thrilled to launch the re3read initiative, and World Book Day is the perfect time to do so.
“By enabling redistribution of second-hand books at the re3 Recycling Centres, we’re not only benefiting our local communities and supporting education but also helping to reduce our carbon footprint.
“We’re excited to see the potential of our re3read scheme to reduce waste, promote reuse, and support the local community.
“We hope residents take full advantage of this opportunity to access free books and stop by our bookshelves when visiting the Recycling Centres.”
Books are one of the most commonly donated items.
Last year alone, residents dropped off 57 tonnes of books for reuse.
The re3read initiative ensures that as many of these books as possible remain within the local community, offering them for free to individuals and organisations such as schools, nurseries, care homes, and libraries.
The scheme not only encourages a second life for these books, but it reduces the environmental impact.
It also addresses community needs by improving access to books, bridging literacy gaps, and fostering a more inclusive and supportive society.
Residents can take books free of charge from designated bookshelves at the Recycling Centres in Longshot Lane, Bracknell, and Island Road, Reading.
And local organisations, including schools, nurseries, and care homes, can apply for bundles of second-hand books to support educational activities or to refresh their own libraries.
This helps organisations save money while extending the lifespan of books already in circulation.
Scott Adams, re3 general manager, FCC Environment added:
“Recycling has always been at the core of our mission, but reducing waste and reusing resources has become increasingly crucial and fortunately, it’s now a very normalised practice within our community.
“We’re excited to expand our efforts by adding re3read Book Reuse scheme to our reuse services.
“Initiatives like this, alongside Paint Reuse scheme and Reuse Pop-Up Shops, highlight the growing demand for second hand items, and it’s encouraging to see our residents actively supporting and participating in these efforts.”
Re3 is a waste management partnership between Bracknell Forest, Reading, Wokingham Borough Councils, and FCC Environment.
For more information and to apply for free books, visit: re3.fccenvironment.co.uk