Pupils will receive more than 1,300 books during an annual drive next week.

A statement said sponsors and volunteers will deliver 1,353 books to nursery and preschools on World Book Day — 20 more than were given through last year’s campaign.

Nikita Robinson, host of The Worship Room on Magic 102.7, is organising the drive, which will also provide books to 17 primary school classrooms, middle and high school libraries and children’s residential homes.

World Book Day, on March 6, promotes reading for pleasure and aims to give every child a book of their own.

The statement added: “Reading Officer Kim Manderson from the Department of Education has lent her support again by retrieving specific book requests from each of the reading specialists at our public primary schools.”

This year’s sponsors include the David Burt, the Premier, and his wife Kristin, former premiers Ewart Brown and Michael Dunkley, Lindo’s, Deloitte and Skyport.

Anyone interested in supporting the cause can visit the Bookmart at Brown & Co or call 279-5443 to buy books or a gift card, or e-mail Nikita@hott1075bermuda.com if interested in reading.

The statement said five primary, two middle and two high schools still need sponsorship.