"We wanted to ensure that books were available to Kiwi kids in hospital.
"We understand, as indeed all parents and adults looking after sick children do, that when there is stress and fear and boredom, when a child is out of his or her comfort zone and away from home and favourite toys and books, that a book provided in hospital will really help to brighten up a child's life," Mr Southam said.
The books were presented in Whangarei on Monday and blessed in a special ceremony from the play specialists. Play specialist Karen Parker says parents and children are very excited to see all the fantastic books in the Lucky Library.
"The patients are enjoying quiet reading times in the rooms with parents, after having looked through the trolley and chosen their books.
"What amazing books we have been given - there is a book that would cater for every child's interests."
The five Northland public hospitals to receive the book donations from Scholastic this week are Whangarei, Dargaville, Bay of Islands, Kaitaia and Hokianga.
