Parents scrambling for a last-minute World Book Day costume are being reminded that Dudley’s libraries are offering a simple – and free – solution.
With World Book Day taking place on Thursday 5 March, families can swap last year’s outfit for a different character costume at libraries in Brierley Hill, Gornal, Wordsley and Halesowen.choo
For many parents and carers, the annual hunt for a costume can bring a familiar wave of stress – whether it’s hurried online orders, raiding the dressing-up box the night before or trying to fashion something together with safety pins and cardboard. The costume swap offers a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to buying new each year, while keeping the excitement of dressing up alive for children.
It is the second year that Brierley Hill Library has hosted the initiative and, following its success in 2025, three additional Dudley libraries have joined the scheme.
Stephanie Rhoden, Dudley Libraries Partnership Manager, said:
“World Book Day is coming up fast and that’s why we’re encouraging people to exchange last year’s clothes.
“The swaps are entirely free and, since 2026 is the National Year of Reading, getting involved and enthusing youngsters about books is more important than ever.”
Many schools encourage pupils to dress as their favourite book character to celebrate World Book Day, helping to spark imagination and a lifelong love of reading. By swapping costumes rather than buying new, families can reduce waste, save money and still enjoy the magic of the occasion.
Dudley Libraries are operated under the Better brand by GLL, the not-for-profit social enterprise which runs the borough’s libraries on behalf of Dudley Council.
Residents are encouraged to drop off clean, good-quality costumes and browse the selection available in time for the big day
