A simple book swap could help put thousands of books into the hands of First Nations children. The Indigenous Literacy Foundation is calling on schools, families and communities to get involved—and it’s easier than you think.

A simple idea with a big impact

Swapping books might feel like a small act—but in 2026, it could help deliver 25,000 culturally relevant books to First Nations children in remote communities.

The Indigenous Literacy Foundation’s (ILF) Great Book Swap is back, inviting schools, libraries, workplaces, book clubs and families across Australia to take part.

As children’s author and ILF ambassador Andy Griffiths puts it:

“Hosting a Great Book Swap… is a simple yet powerful act… Reading opens doors!”

What you actually need to do

The concept is straightforward—and flexible enough to suit any group size.

1. Register your swap
Sign up online to get started (greatbookswap.org.au).

2. Collect books
Ask participants to bring along a book they no longer need (in good condition).

3. Host your swap event
Set up a table, stall or event where people can browse and swap books. This could be:

• a school activity
• a workplace morning tea
• a library or community event
• a book club gathering
• even a small swap at home with friends

4. Ask for a donation
Instead of “paying” for a book, participants make a donation to the Indigenous Literacy Foundation.

5. Send in your funds
Submit the money raised to ILF to help fund books for remote communities.

When to do it (key dates to know)

The beauty of the Great Book Swap is its flexibility—you can host your event any time during 2026.

However, there are a couple of incentives to keep in mind:

• By 30 June 2026 → Go into the draw to win an early bird prize (a set of ILF books)
• By 1 November 2026 (schools) → Receive a virtual author visit from Andy Griffiths

There’s also a natural tie-in with Indigenous Literacy Day (2 September 2026), when many schools choose to run their swap or related activities.

Extra benefits for schools and educators

Teachers who register receive free classroom resources linked to First Nations stories and languages, helping bring cultural learning into the classroom.

These include materials focused on animals and storytelling, supporting both literacy and cultural understanding.

Why it matters

Access to books is something many Australian families take for granted—but in remote communities, culturally relevant books can be scarce.

The Great Book Swap helps change that, while also giving children across Australia a meaningful way to contribute.

It’s also a great conversation starter for families: why stories matter, whose voices are heard, and how small actions can make a real difference.

The takeaway for parents

You don’t need a big event to take part.

A simple book swap at home, at school or with a few friends can still raise funds—and awareness.

Swap a book. Make a donation. And help share stories that deserve to be told.