BOOKS that have been adapted into Netflix shows and films are being donated to Jersey’s libraries as part of a major reading initiative across the UK and the Channel Islands.
Jersey Library in St Helier and the Communicare Centre in St Brelade are being donated the books through a new partnership between the British Library and the streaming giant.
They are just two of the 100 public libraries which will benefit from the scheme to mark the National Year of Reading.
UK Education Secretary Lucy Powell said: “Reading opens the door to new worlds, sparks imagination and creates memories that stay with us for a lifetime. This exciting partnership will help more children and families discover the stories behind the shows they love, and inspire them to pick up a book themselves.
“That’s why, as part of the National Year of Reading, we’re encouraging everyone to Go All In and make time to read in the way that works for them, whether that’s a comic, a blog or the novel behind a much-loved screen adaptation.
“We’re putting reading back on the agenda for families by building the foundations of literacy from day one and creating a library in every primary school, because everyone, whatever their age or background, should have the opportunity to experience the magic of reading for pleasure.”
It comes following the publication of a report in Jersey that found children had a “high degree of ambivalence” when it comes to reading.
The initiative builds on the National Literacy Trust’s 2025 Annual Literacy survey that found children are the most motivated to read books connected to their favourite films and television series.
Helen Schulte, head of culture programmes at the British Library, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Netflix. With this partnership we’re helping to bring Netflix’s exciting literary adaptations to new audiences across the UK via our Living Knowledge Network of public libraries.”
Following the release of Netflix’s adaptation of David Nicholls’ One Day, for example, sales of the book increased by 4,452%.
The 20 donated books – which will include the likes of Frankenstein, East of Eden and The Thursday Murder Club – will be given a dedicated shelf with accompanying signage.
Anne Mensah, vice president of content at Netflix, added: “Every great adaptation starts with a great story. We’re incredibly proud to bring these stories to audiences around the world, but we also know the experience doesn’t have to end when the credits roll.
“We hope this initiative helps more people discover the books behind the shows and films they love, while supporting the brilliant public libraries that make reading accessible to everyone.”
