A LIBRARY in Douglas is taking part in the largest book giveaway ever attempted next month.

The Henry Bloom Noble Library, on Victoria Street, will take part in World Book Night which aims to give away one million books to people across the UK, Ireland and the Isle of Man.

20,000 people applied to chose a book they are passionate about to give away to other book lovers.

Island resident Ruth Baxendale was one of the applicants chosen and will be giving out copies of The World's Wife by Carol Ann Duffy.

Ruth said: "I am thrilled to be chosen as one of the 20,000 book givers. I was inspired to apply as World Book Night falls on the eve of my 50th birthday and givers are allocated 50 books to give away."

Jan Macartney, Douglas borough librarian, said: "Personal recommendation is such a vital element in encouraging greater numbers of people to discover the joys of the printed word so I am delighted that World Book Night giver Ruth Baxendale has chosen the Henry Bloom Noble Library as her venue for giving out copies.

"To be part of this groundbreaking celebration of books, and reading for pleasure on such an epic scale, is truly exciting."

The World Book Night giveaway will take place between 6pm and 8pm on Saturday, March 5.

The first 50 people through the door will receive a free copy of the book.

From 6.30pm to 8.30pm members of the Isle of Man Poetry Society will be reading from Carol Ann Duffy's book and reciting their favorite poems.

For more information visit www.wordbooknight.org.