‘An exciting new chapter for Hertford’: Giving Day 2026

9 March 2026

On 5–6 March, Hertford celebrated its third Giving Day, a 36-hour fundraising effort to support our new library development. Launching on World Book Day, the Giving Day was a moment for the whole college community to come together to support Hertford’s biggest transformation in a century, and celebrate what makes it so special.

The JCR, MCR and SCR and staff teams completed the University Parks Parkrun in World Book Day fancy dress, competing to raise the most sponsorship. Children’s author and illustrator and Hertford alumna Anya Glazer (History and Modern Languages, 2009) completed a spectacular literary-inspired mural on the hoardings around the library construction site in OB Quad. The catering team put on a delicious Giving Day formal with a menu featuring prominent Hertford literary alumni. Staff and students took part in a book swap, shared memories of libraries they have loved and enjoyed special Giving Day discounted food and drink in the Buttery. Hertford College Music Society Orchestra played out the day in style at an event on Friday afternoon to thank all those involved.

We are delighted that more than 450 alumni, staff, students and friends have raised an astounding £605,000, leaving previous Giving Day records far behind! Thank you so much to everyone who supported us. You can still donate and see the many kind messages and memories on our Giving Day site.