Paisley volunteer awarded Scottish Book Trust's Bookbug Hero Award

Margaret Brook, a volunteer at the STAR Project in Paisley, has been awarded the Scottish Book Trust's 2026 Bookbug Hero Award.

This accolade is given to individuals who use Bookbug, a book gifting programme for children up to five years old, to positively impact the lives of children, families, and communities.

Margaret has been leading weekly Bookbug Sessions at the STAR Project for more than 12 years.

Reflecting on her award, Margaret said: “I was really surprised to receive this award but feel that my passion for reading and being able to pass this on to young children is an honour beyond words.

“I am very humbled and thank Scottish Book Trust.

“If I can pass on my love of books, I feel I will have done a good job.”

The STAR Project, established in 1999, aids individuals facing poverty and associated stigma through creative and cultural initiatives.

Margaret initially joined as an admin assistant and was so impressed by the influence of Bookbug on families that she chose to continue volunteering after her retirement.

Heather Kay, interim manager at STAR Project, described Margaret as “a constant ray of sunshine”.

She praised Margaret for her “person-centred approach where she absolutely meets people where they need her to meet them, that's magical”.

Margaret's sessions have been particularly impactful, as highlighted by the story one child who spoke for the first time after Margaret's consistent interaction and encouragement.

Heather said: “Margaret had worked with a family that had been struggling.

“The daughter was selectively mute.

“Margaret had worked week in, week out, being consistent with her.

“The book that they were reading at the time, [the children] shout out the last line.

“Margaret turned to the young girl and said, ‘Are you going to tell me the last line?’

“And she ran round the labyrinth into the middle and shouted it.

“We were so proud because that was the first time we’d heard the wee girl speak.”

Describing her experience with the child, Margaret said: “She came every week, and we played together and we read books, and I would read to her.

“Perhaps she is the one that I have had the most effect on.

“But I never think of me having an effect on anybody because I just don’t.

“I just do what I love to do, and to be with them, and to play with them, and to give them things that perhaps they don’t always get at home.”

Sharon McAulay, chief executive of STAR Project, said: “Margaret is a true stalwart of STAR.

“Her steadfastness and consistency bring a deep sense of safety to everyone she works with.

“She brings joy to every wee face, support to caregivers, and her Bookbug sessions are held in the highest regard by staff for their exceptional quality.

“Margaret has always been a Bookbug Hero to us, and we can think of no more deserving person to receive this award.

“She consistently goes above and beyond, never seeking recognition or praise, yet we see the dedication she gives so freely.

“No matter the weather or what is happening in her own life, she turns up every week and makes every Bookbug session special, engaging and safe for all involved.”

Philippa Cochrane, Scottish Book Trust's director of programme, said: “Huge congratulations to Margaret Brook, our very well-deserved Bookbug Hero for 2026.

“Margaret is an inspiration, going above and beyond to nurture and support young families in her community who are facing poverty and deprivation.

“It’s wonderful to hear how Margaret enriches the lives of the people she works with, through sharing songs, rhymes and stories, and so much more.

“Our thanks also to Walker Books for making this award possible.”

Four other early years workers were highly commended for the 2026 Bookbug Hero Award: Shirley Taylor, community early years practitioner, NHS Highland, Isle of Skye; Alison Houghton, early years family learning practitioner, St Madoes Primary School, Perth and Kinross; Thomas McKee, library assistant, Inverness Library, Highland; and Kelly Brazewell, library assistant, Banchory Library, Aberdeenshire.