TeamLGT goes 'All In' for World Book Day
TeamLGT’s Play and School Teams went all in for World Book Day, dressing up asfictional characters and bringing the magic of reading to young patients. Free books and storytelling on the children’s wards sparked smiles, imagination, and excitement throughout the day.
The 2026 World Book Day theme, “Go All In,” encourages children to dive deeper into their favourite books, hobbies, and interests. As part of the National Year of Reading, the theme highlights the importance of making reading for pleasure accessible and enjoyable for all children.
At Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH), the play teams dressed up as Little Miss characters, handing out books generously donated by Carole Oldfield, librarian at Newhaven PRU School, in collaboration with Moon Lane Ink Bookshop.
Meanwhile, at University Hospitals Leicester (UHL), local librarians Alice Lemmard and Paul Nash visited wards to read to children as part of “Tell a Fairy Tale” week. In the Emergency Department, patients celebrated Dr Seuss’s birthday with themed activities and books. Throughout the week, every patient had the chance to join in the celebration.
Carly Ford, High-Level Teaching Assistant at Queen Elizabeth Newhaven Hospital School Room, said: "It was such an exciting morning. The children’s enthusiasm when receiving the books was infectious, and even our colleagues couldn’t help but join in. Dressing up and sharing stories really brought imagination and learning to life for everyone involved."
Miriam Willats, Health Play Specialist, added:“Seeing the children’s faces light up as they received their books was amazing. For many, these moments offer a welcome distraction from being in hospital, while also encouraging creativity and a love of reading.”
One parent summed up the day perfectly: “That’s amazing that you’re giving out books to everyone. Thank you so much. Moments like these show how something as simple as a book can brighten a hospital stay".
