Six inspiring books start a tour around Somerset Libraries on World Book Day, raising awareness of the importance of foster carers. 

The tour, which begins at Taunton Library and moves to 11 more local libraries, is part of a Somerset County Council campaign to draw attention to the growing need for foster carers in the county.  

The six books – all in one dedicated bookstand - detail the impact and responsibilities of the role, providing an honest and personal look at the fostering experience, written by foster carers and care leavers. These books offer readers a deeper understanding of what it means to be a foster carer and the positive impact they can have on a child's life.  

The design of the bookstand itself was inspired by the animated hand-drawn bears from Fostering in Somerset's award-winning advertising campaign Theo's Story, and recent follow up Anna's Story. 

One of the books included in the stand, 'The Little Red Dragon', is a children's storybook dedicated to the many foster children of the author, Emma Lloyd, a long serving Somerset foster carer. Emma said: "Stories are a lovely way for children to relax before going to sleep and a wonderful escape from their day-to-day worries. The Little Red Dragon is a reminder of the many children in Somerset who don't have adequate care and need help from others." 

The books will be available for reading and rental at Taunton Library throughout March, before travelling to Bridgwater Library in April.  

Lead Member for Children and Families at Somerset County Council, Cllr Tessa Munt, said: "These six books and their bookstand offer the perfect opportunity for members of the community to learn about fostering in a comfortable and informal setting. It's a great starting point for anyone considering becoming a foster carer and a wonderful way to re-discover the services offered by your local library." 

If you are 21 or over and have a spare room in your home, you can make a difference in a child's life by becoming a foster carer in Somerset. 

As a Somerset Foster Carer, you are eligible for a weekly fee and allowance and will be guided and supported through the process by Fostering In Somerset's friendly team. 

For more information, visit www.fosteringinsomerset.org.uk or call 0800 587 9900. Follow Fostering in Somerset on Facebook or Instagram to stay up-to-date with the books tour locations.