With Halloween just around the corner, East Riding Libraries’ successful costume swap scheme is returning to selected branches and mobile libraries.

The scheme gives children the opportunity to donate a costume and collect a “new to you” costume to take home from selected sites.

From Monday, 13 October until Sunday, 19 October, residents can pop into their closest participating library to drop off old costumes that they no longer have a use for. Then, from Monday, 20 October to Sunday, 2 November, residents will be able to browse and pick up a costume from on of these libraries.

Residents do not need to have donated a costume in order to pick a new one. Please note that donations can be made throughout the entire scheme and not just during the first week, with pick-ups only available from 20 October to 2 November.

Jess McCarthy, librarian with East Riding Libraries, said: “We’re so glad to be doing the costume swap for Halloween again this year. It’s a great way to get involved with the holiday while also doing your bit for the environment.”

Tara Foxon, librarian with East Riding Libraries, continued: “Halloween can be an expensive time for families who need to buy new costumes. We’re trying to make sure everyone can get into the spooky spirit without having to spend a fortune.

“Whether they’re donating an old costume or picking a new one, it’s a lovely way to bring the community into libraries across the East Riding.”

Councillor Nick Coultish, cabinet member for culture, leisure and tourism at East Riding of Yorkshire Council said: ‘’This scheme was introduced in 2024 to help reduce the need to buy brand new costumes for single use, which can be damaging to the environment.

‘’East Riding Libraries want to encourage recycling costumes rather than purchasing new ones. The scheme also helps with the rising cost of living for families.’’

 Bridlington Central Library is participating in the Halloween Costume Swap.

The mobile library service will also be participating.

Please note that East Riding Libraries have no responsibility for these costumes, and they are to be donated with the consent of parents and carers. We also cannot guarantee that everyone will find a suitable costume to swap.

To find out more about East Riding Libraries, visit: www.eastridinglibraries.co.uk/