Libraries are finding new ways to promote sustainability and recycling.
In Trafford, a new book donation scheme is helping to reduce waste and boost access to reading materials through community sharing.
The scheme encourages library users to donate certain titles they have already read so that others can borrow them instead of the books being thrown away.
Since its launch earlier this year, the project has added 371 books and other items to the library catalogue, resulting in 569 additional loans.
Councillor Eve Parker, Trafford Council’s executive member for leisure, arts, culture, and heritage, said: "We are hugely proud of our libraries in Trafford and see them as vital to our communities.
"The library book donation scheme is a great idea and is proving to be massively successful.
"It works really well and is a vehicle to allow readers to share their books with others once they have read them.
"The scheme also feeds into our commitments to recycling and the environment."
Library users are being asked to donate in-demand titles to help reduce waiting lists, with Richard Osman’s We Solve Murders among those requested.
Other accepted donations include How Not to Be a Political Wife: A Memoir by Sarah Vine and Destructo and Other Ridiculous Stories! by Jamie Smart.
The scheme also supports Trafford Council’s broader environmental goals and its participation in the Green Libraries Manifesto, which aims to make library services more sustainable.
Addressing the climate crisis has been identified by the council as a key part of its corporate strategy, while ensuring that culture, sport, and heritage remain accessible to all.
The library book donation scheme is seen as a practical way to promote recycling while increasing access to popular books in the community.
For more information on how to donate or which titles are currently being accepted, residents can visit the Trafford Council website.
Share