Cumbria Libraries will be distributing 160 copies of the book ‘Stories to make you smile’ to local charities and organisations to inspire and encourage people in Cumbria to read more.

The books will be provided to Cumbria Libraries from World Book Night (WBN) organisers, who are celebrating WBN’s 10th anniversary with a special ‘Books to Make You Smile’ theme.

‘Stories to make you smile’ is written by ten bestselling novelists, including Jenny Éclair, Katie Fforde, Veronica Henry and Rachel Hore.

Cabinet Member for Public Health and Local Communities, Cllr Deborah Earl, said: "It’s fantastic to see our library service helping to inspire the people of Cumbria to pick up a book and discover, or even rediscover, a love for reading.

"This is a great event to be part of. Encouraging our communities to read more provides many health benefits, as well as having a positive impact individual’s wellbeing."

"Given the difficult year everyone has had, ‘Stories to Make You Smile’ is the perfect book to lift our spirits and as it says, make us smile!"

WBN is the annual celebration of books and reading that takes place on 23 April each year.

Cumbria County Council’s Library Service will receive 160 copies of the book ‘Stories to make you smile’ for distribution throughout the county from April 23.

This year for the 10th anniversary, WBN also have an evening planned with the British Library, offering free online events that are available to all.

For more information visit The World Book Night website.