The first paperback edition of the University Carol book was published in 1978 but had been out of print for nearly 20 years until Banks Music Publications in association with EMI Music Publishing Ltd. re-issued it in 2007. It is a superb collection of 217 carols for all occasions, based on a series of pamphlets published by H Freeman & Co.

The carols are arranged according to the Church season and the inclusion of some suitable hymns ensures that the book is eminently suitable for church or school use in services throughout the whole season. The carols originate from many countries and even include an Australian carol written for a summer Christmas. It also includes some of the Basque carols made so popular by the Kings College, Cambridge carol services and recordings.