Wild Reads 2023 collection launches

This Spring marks the release of Wild Reads 2023, a new book collection and a five-month programme of themed events and activities created by Suffolk Libraries and Suffolk Wildlife Trust.

First launched in 2020, Wild Reads aims to encourage readers and wildlife-lovers to explore and celebrate the connection between the natural world and the written word.

The 2023 collection has now been announced and the programme will be officially launched on Wednesday 3 May with an online event with Sarah Gibson, author of Swifts and Us.

Each month we will be highlighting a different title and theme. The following titles have been specially selected for the 2023 programme:

• May – Swifts and Us by Sarah Gibson
• June - Silent Spring by Rachel Carson
• July - The Stubborn Light of Things by Melissa Harrison
• August - Under the Stars by Mat Gaw
• September – Underland by Robert Macfarlane.

Ipswich County, Hadleigh, Sudbury, Framlingham and Haverhill libraries will hold collections of the Wild Reads titles. However, readers across Suffolk can reserve any of the titles to be collected at their local library for free. There will also be audiobook versions of these titles available via the free eLibrary service.

Sophie Green, Suffolk Libraries’ Stock Librarian and Wild Reads Co-ordinator, said:

“Wild Reads aims to increase wellbeing and awareness of our amazing wild spaces, through nature writing and connected events and activities. In celebrating our wild spaces, from Suffolk Wildlife Trust reserves to Suffolk Libraries’ gardens, we hope to create a community of readers, writers, and nature-lovers.”

Sara Holman, Head of Engagement at Suffolk Wildlife Trust, added:

“We are delighted to be working with Suffolk Libraries on Wild Reads.  We hope the project will encourage people to engage with nature with us through the fantastic nature writing chosen for our Wild Reads collection and the range of book-related events and activities taking place throughout the year at our reserves and centres and online.”   Wild-themed activities and events will be held across the county with local wildlife groups, including promoting diverse and eco-friendly gardens and community spaces.

Find out more about our Wild Reads programme.

Launch event information:

The free launch event with Sarah Gibson will take place via Zoom on Wednesday 3 May at 6PM. The event will feature Sarah Gibson being interviewed by Lisa Brennan, Suffolk Libraries Content and Reader Development Librarian and will last about 45 minutes.

Anyone interested can book their free place online.

Other Wild Reads events will be confirmed in the near future. Suffolk Wildlife Trust have already confirmed a Save our Suffolk Swifts activity day on Saturday 1 July from 10AM to 2PM at Carlton Marshes near Lowestoft. This will feature drop-in activities highlighting the importance of saving our swifts.