A new initiative encouraging people to read has proved popular along Sunderland’s seafront.

Four Little Libraries have been installed at key points along the coast where people can borrow, exchange or replace a book.

Spearheaded by Sunderland’s Seafront Volunteer Group and Sunderland Seafront BID, the aim of these Little Libraries is to encourage people to enjoy reading by the sea while also giving books a new home.

The Little Libraries have been set up at The Seaburn Inn, The Tram Shelter, Adventure Sunderland and the Marina.

Little Libraries have been installed along Sunderland's seafront to encourage people to read.

placeholder image — Little Libraries have been installed along Sunderland's seafront to encourage people to read.

Roberta Redecke, head of business services at Sunderland BID, said: “People are really embracing the Little Libraries and finding them an incredibly useful way to take the opportunity to read against the backdrop of Sunderland’s magnificent coastline.

“It’s a small but really effective way to make a visit to the seafront even more enjoyable and something everyone can take part in.”

The launch of the project aligns with 2026 being the National Year of Reading, which encourages people to discover the benefits and enjoyment of reading for pleasure.

The building of the Little Libraries has been supported by the National Literacy Trust, with each library featuring a unique piece of art thanks to Su Devine from the Art Café, in Sunderland, who painted them.

Plans are also underway for a special celebration event on October 3.

As part of Look For the Book, people will be tasked with finding books hidden at locations between the Little Libraries at Roker and Seaburn.

Roberta said: “This is just such an exciting project which everyone can be involved with.”