QBD Books named official Books Partner for 2025 MS Readathon

QBD Books, Australia’s largest locally owned and operated book retailer, has been announced as the official books partner for the 2025 MS Readathon, an annual initiative that supports families affected by multiple sclerosis (MS) and other neurological conditions.

Now in its 47th year, the MS Readathon will run throughout August, inviting children and families across Australia to read for a cause. Last year’s event saw young readers devour 198,490 books, raising $1.3 million for vital support services.

This year’s partnership with QBD Books is set to expand that impact, with the retailer drawing on its network of 91 stores nationwide to boost visibility, participation and fundraising outcomes.

“We’re honoured to partner with MS Readathon, an organisation doing vital work to support families across Australia affected by MS and neurological conditions,” said Nick Croydon, CEO of QBD Books. “At QBD, we believe in the power of stories to inspire, connect and uplift, supporting the MS Readathon allows us to bring communities together through books for a meaningful cause.”

The partnership will also feature two online book fairs during August. The first will cater to readers aged 1–7, while the second will offer a broader range for all ages. Fifteen per cent of sales from each fair will be donated directly to the MS Readathon.

To support readers in making their selections, QBD’s expert book buyers will curate age-appropriate recommendations from their children’s, fiction and schools departments.

“The MS Readathon has been inspiring kids to read for 47 years, and this August, we’re thrilled to collaborate with QBD Books a bookseller with national reach and a genuine passion for igniting imaginations,” said the CEO of the MS Readathon, David Curd.

“With seven million Australians living with a neurological condition, every family, school and community is touched in some way. This collaboration helps deepen that connection and drive lasting impact.”

The MS Readathon has been encouraging a love of reading and philanthropy since 1978. All funds raised go toward providing essential services and support for families navigating life with MS and related conditions.

For more information or to register, visit here.