The Books in Homes Programme was originally inspired by Maori author Alan Duff who wrote the widely acclaimed book “Once Were Warriors”. Duffy Books in Homes New Zealand was formed in 1995 and now has over 100,000 students participating from 530 schools and more than 200 sponsors.

The Charitable Foundation for Books in Homes Australia was formed in 2001.

The Australian Government via the Department of Education, Science and Training funded a Pilot of the Books in Homes Primary Programme in 93 selected schools in Far North Queensland and the Northern Territory commencing in April 2001 and concluding in November 2001.