Matthew’s Talks
Bookbanks is not just about distributing books. It’s about the conversations, community, inspiration and creativity those books can spark.
We’re always asking ourselves how to deepen that impact, and so in March 2025 we launched Matthew’s Talks. Named in memory of, and supported by, the friends and family of Matthew McFadden, whose deep love of books provided the bedrock for his fierce moral strength and his innate sense of other people's worth and dignity, this is a programme of live events held inside our partner food banks. Some are talks, given by an author about one of their books, others are hands-on workshops, all of them celebrate the power of words in a way that’s inclusive, welcoming and, above all, exciting.
Star speakers so far have included Andrew O’Hagan, Anne Sebba, D.J. Taylor and Francesca Segal.
Read stories from past events, donate to the programme or find out how to get involved here.
Librarian visits
Wherever possible, we work alongside local libraries, hosting a librarian visit at each of our stalls, every two months. Guests can meet them in person, often sign up for a library card on the spot, and hear about the library’s services, from large-print editions to Lego clubs. If you're a local librarian and would like to link up with us, we'd love to hear from you.
‘If you haven't got money, but you have a book, the book is knowledge and knowledge is good.’
Yusuf, Bookbanks Dalston
‘I came for food, and I left with food for the soul.’
Grace, Bookbanks Hammersmith & Fulham
‘Bookbanks is full of surprises - that’s the beauty of it!’
Tracy, Bookbanks Manchester
Supporter evenings
Once a year, we host an evening for our generous supporter community. In 2026, we were delighted to welcome Kit de Waal, who spoke about her life with books and how much they can mean to someone living in poverty. Would you like to join us next time? Sign up to our newsletter to be the first to hear.