Camilla hosts celebration for Book Aid International at St James’s Palace

Camilla, the Queen, hosted a significant event at St James's Palace in London to celebrate the 70th anniversary of Book Aid International, a prominent UK charity dedicated to promoting reading. The reception was attended by approximately 100 guests, including notable figures such as the charity's president, Nigel Newton, and Lady Caroline Simmonds, the daughter of the charity's founder. This gathering highlighted the impact of the charity, which has distributed over 37 million books to various institutions worldwide since its inception in 1954. During the event, the Queen emphasized the importance of reading and the joy it brings to children, reinforcing her commitment to literacy and education. As a patron of Book Aid International since 2022, she has actively supported initiatives that promote access to books and reading materials. Her involvement reflects a broader recognition of the role that literature plays in enriching lives and fostering learning. The charity's mission aligns with the Queen's own efforts to encourage reading, which she began during the Covid-19 pandemic by establishing an online book club in 2021. This initiative not only provided a platform for discussion but also aimed to engage the public in the joys of reading during a challenging time. The celebration served as a reminder of the ongoing need for access to books in various communities, including schools, libraries, prisons, and refugee camps. By highlighting the achievements of Book Aid International, the event underscored the vital role that such organizations play in promoting literacy and education globally.