Communities
Beyond the Festival
For more than two decades, Borders Book Festival has brought some of the world's finest writers and thinkers to Harmony Garden each June. We believe the festival's role reaches far beyond four days each summer, with a part to play in our community all year round.
The Scottish Borders is a large rural area, and not everyone gets the same chance to take part in arts and culture. Our ambition is to help close that gap for everyone, whatever their background, ability, or circumstance.
OUR COMMITMENT
Our aim is for the festival to work for the Borders all year round, not just in June. That means expanding our relationships with schools, youth organisations, and community groups. We want our connections to open doors for communities of all ages and backgrounds who might not otherwise get the chance.
ACCESS AND INCLUSION
The Bloom Media youth project and our Schools Day already demonstrate our commitment. In 2026 we added our first Friday Family Festival, a calm and welcoming session designed with neurodivergent children and their families in mind, alongside neurodiversity awareness training for every member of festival staff. We are building on these foundations and growing our connections with communities across the region.
WORK WITH US
We are always keen to connect with groups across the Borders. If you have an idea or would simply like to talk about how the festival could support your community, please get in touch.
Lisa Cowan (Lead for Community Engagement)
Email: lisa@bordersbookfestival.org
