East Riding Libraries’ successful costume swap scheme is returning to Bridlington Libraries this Christmas.

The scheme gives children the opportunity to donate a costume for nativities or a Christmas jumper and collect a “new to you” costume or jumper to take home.

From Monday, 24th November until Saturday, 29th November, residents can visit any library to drop off old costumes and jumpers that they no longer have a use for.

From Monday, 1st December to Saturday, 22nd December, residents will be able to visit a participating library to browse and pick up something new to them. Residents do not need to have donated anything in order to take part in the costume swap scheme.

Donations can be made throughout the entire scheme, not just during the first week, and can be taken to any East Riding Library. Pick-ups can only be made from 1st December to 22nd December from participating libraries.

East Riding Libraries want to encourage recycling costumes rather than purchasing new ones. The costume swap scheme was introduced in 2024 to help reduce the need to buy brand new costumes for single use, this can help families with the rising cost of living whilst helping to reduce damage to the environment.

Councillor Nick Coultish, cabinet member for culture, leisure and tourism at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: “The costume swaps are always so popular throughout the year in our libraries. It’s great they’re back for the festive season.

“Christmas can be a very expensive time, so this is a lovely way to relieve some of the stress for families as well as getting them into our libraries to enjoy everything we have to offer.”

Tara Foxon, librarian with East Riding Libraries, continued: “This is the first time we’ve held the costume swap at Christmas, and it also means that people might be able to find a new Christmas jumper, as well as a costume for a nativity!

“Whether they’re donating an old costume, or picking a new one, it’s a wonderful way to bring the community into libraries across the East Riding and help us all to get into the festive spirit.”

Libraries participating in the Christmas costume and jumper swap include both Bridlington Central Library and Bridlington North Library.

East Riding Libraries have no responsibility for the costumes or jumpers, and they are to be donated and taken at the parents or carers consent. It also cannot be guaranteed that everyone will find a suitable costume.

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