New community book exchange opened in Darlington Markets

The initiative invites visitors to donate books they no longer need or pick up new ones to enjoy. 

The book exchange, located opposite the 'Out the Box' shop in the markets has already received such a positive response from the community, with many more people donating and purchasing books. 

The exchange aims to make reading more accessible to everyone, regardless of anyone's financial situation. 

Chloe Wood, who came up with the idea for the exchange said: "Sometimes a book from Waterstones can set you back £13 and you only read it once and that's what got me thinking. 

"There isn't really anything else like this in the town centre so it's been really exciting to set it up."

Chloe Wood, 31, from Darlington in front of her new Community book exchange. (Image: Chloe Wood) Chloe managed to set up the exchange in just six days, preparing it in time for the Christmas Markets after pitching the idea to her manager at 'Out the Box'.

Together, they wanted to fill the space opposite with something that would benefit the community.

Chloe also hoped the exchange would help bring more foot traffic to the regenerated markets —and it has.

In its first week of operation, Chloe received hundreds of book donations, so many that she can now rotate her stock.

The book exchange operates on a simple concept - people can bring in any books they no longer need and swap them for new ones, a sustainable method that Chloe is proud of.

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For those who don’t have books to exchange, the 'Honestly Box' allows visitors to pay whatever amount they wish for a book.

All proceeds from the box are donated to charity, with the current beneficiary being Cancer Research.

The 'Honesty Box' at the Community book exchange (Image: Chloe Wood) The charity supported Chloe’s setup by donating hundreds of books, and in the future, she plans to change the charity to support various causes.

The exchange offers a wide variety of books, from children’s titles and cookbooks to novels of all genres.

Whether you're looking for something new to read or want to donate, the community book exchange has something for everyone.

The exchange is open Monday to Friday from noon to 4 pm, and Saturdays from 10am to 4pm at Darlington Markets, opposite Out the Box.