If you, a friend or relative loves reading but are unable to get to the library because of a disability, ill health, mobility issues or due to caring responsibilities at home, Wiltshire Council’s home library service may be the perfect solution.
The free service, which is delivered by volunteers, is available for eligible customers who have no one to visit the library for them.
A member of library staff initially visits the customer at home to talk about what they would like to read. They are then introduced to a library volunteer, who will visit every few weeks to exchange their books. There are no fines or charges for this service and items can also be requested.
For more information about how to access the home library service, contact your local library or call the Access and Volunteer Manager on 01225 713706. Enquiries can also be sent via email to: libraryenquiries@wiltshire.gov.uk.
John Thomson, cabinet member for libraries, said: “The home library service is a great solution for people who are unable to get to their local library and have no friends or family to visit the library on their behalf
“However, this service couldn’t be provided without the support and work of our dedicated volunteers, and I would like to thank them for what they do. If you would like to volunteer, please get in contact with your local library.”
A Wiltshire resident that uses the home library service said: “It’s a bonus to have a friendly visitor who takes time and trouble to order suitable books. I am very pleased with the lady who brings my books and I look forward to her visits. It’s nice to have a chat and she is very helpful.”
Home library service volunteers receive full training and are subject to an enhanced disclosure check (DBS). If you are interested in volunteering for this role, see:www.wiltshire.gov.uk/libraries-volunteering.
