Calling all book lovers! A popular home library service run by Royal Voluntary Service, the national volunteering organisation, is looking for more reader clients across the Mendip region.
The Home Library Service is run by volunteers who deliver books, audio books and other reading materials to people who can no longer get to a library. The service operates from libraries in Frome and the surrounding Mendip areas.
Royal Voluntary Service volunteers choose and deliver books and share their love of reading with clients. They are a friendly face, are regular visitors to older people whose mobility and social interaction are limited and provide a check on clients’ safety and well-being too.
Jackie Thompson is a Home Library Service volunteer. She visits Pat (Stevens) who enjoys a good murder story, especially anything by Alexandra McCall Smith, and particularly enjoys listening to audio books, especially in the evenings. Pat says, “I have lost the sight in one eye so talking books are a lifeline. I really enjoy the books that Jackie brings me.”
Jackie says, “I enjoy visiting Pat and find her feedback on authors invaluable when choosing books for her or using the online ordering service in Somerset libraries.”
Jacquetta Fielder, volunteer coordinator for Frome Home Library Service says, “For older people who enjoy reading or listening to an audio recording but find getting out of the house challenging, this service offers a vital link to the local library. The service enables older people to carry on doing something they’ve always enjoyed and helps alleviate feelings of isolation and loneliness.
“We’d love as many older people in Somerset as possible to be able to access their local library through the Home Library Service.”
To find out more about the Frome Home Library Service contact Jacquetta Fielder on 07387 548 724 or jacquetta.fielder@royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk,
Website: www.royal voluntaryservice.org.uk
For information about other groups and services in Mendip visit www.health connectionsmendip.org or call Health Connections Mendip 01373 468 368.
