Isle of Wight libraries serve up the Big Tasty Read this summer

This summer, Isle of Wight libraries are cooking up something special — and it’s bound to whet your literary appetite!

They’re joining the Big Tasty Read, a deliciously delightful national celebration that blends the joy of reading with the universal love of food.

It’s a recipe for community connection, curated by The Reading Agency and BBC Arts, and served as part of Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture.

The initiative stirs together food, culture, and storytelling, highlighting books that explore the role of food in our lives — whether it’s through fiction, memoirs, or cookbooks. And Isle of Wight libraries are dishing out their own tasty contributions.

Cowes Library is already sizzling with activity. They’re hosting Eat Street’s fundraising bookcase, where you can donate, swap, or buy cookery books to support the Burnt Chef Project, a charity supporting mental health in the hospitality industry. 

And for those who like their mysteries served with a side of suspense, Cowes also has a new collection titled What’s Your Poison? — a mouth-watering mix of crime and mystery novels with a food twist.

Mark your calendars for Saturday 9 August, when the library service will pop up at The Garlic Farm in Newchurch.

They’ll be showcasing a smorgasbord of food and cookery books, plus giving a taste of the cookery e-magazines available through the BorrowBox app.

And here’s the cherry on top: show your Isle of Wight Library card and enjoy ten per cent off all items in the farm shop that day. Not a member yet? No problem — just bring I.D. and sign up on the spot.

Then, to round off the summer with a sweet treat, Sandown Library will host the Big Tasty Bake-off on Wednesday 3 September.

Budding bakers are invited to whip up a sweet bake using a recipe from a library cookery book. It’s free to enter, and participants will get to taste each other’s creations, vote for their favourite, and enjoy a good old natter over tea. Entry forms and full details are available at Sandown Library.

Louise Emery, development librarian for the Isle of Wight Council Library Service, said: “The Big Tasty Read is a brilliant way to bring people together through two of life’s greatest pleasures — books and food.

"We’re excited to see our communities getting involved, sharing recipes, stories, and maybe even a few secret ingredients!”

Whether you’re a bookworm, a foodie, or both, the Big Tasty Read is sure to tickle your taste buds and your imagination.

Keep an eye on the Isle of Wight Library Facebook page for staff picks and food-themed reads that are simply too good to miss.