The organisation is run by volunteers interested in supporting children and their books, both at a national level, through an executive, and a local level, through local groups, with the support also of individuals and professional members.
The Federation liaises with publishers, libraries, schools and other bodies with an interest in literacy, reading and young people.
The Federation regularly publishes booklists for children of different ages, as well as producing newsletters three times a year, and providing general advice and information on children's books and reading for enjoyment.
[2] Anne Wood, a British children's television producer, and creator of the Teletubbies, established the first Book Group to promote enthusiasm for and about children's book in 1965.
There are currently over 25 separate Book Groups throughout England, Scotland and Wales.