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Community Services Home Library Service

Home Library Service Information

What is the Home Library Service?

Volunteers work closely with the Library Service to deliver books direct to the homes of people who cannot visit the library because of any kind of disability - either temporary or permanent.

Can anyone have library visits? 
The service is available only to people who have no-one else to go to the library for them. 

How can I get the library to visit me?
You should contact the library's Community Services Department whose address and telephone number is listed at the bottom of the page. Or alternatively you can complete the Home Library Service on-line form electronically or by printing a copy off, and posting it to the address below.

What happens then? 
A member of staff will contact you to talk about the service and find out the sort of books you like.

How soon will I get the service? 
It depends as in some areas there may be a waiting list, but a service will be provided as soon as possible.

How much will it cost?
The service is free and there are no fines or request charges.

What can I borrow?
Books (in normal or large print) or books on tape.

How many books can I borrow?
You can borrow as many as you feel you can read before the next visit. But please remember there is a limit to the amount of books someone can carry for you.

How often will someone call?
Once a month at a time to be agreed.

What if I want to read a particular book?
The Home Library Service is just part of North East Lincolnshire's Library service.  If you want a particular book or want to find out about a specific subject, please telephone us and we will try to get the books for you.

And if I need any other information?  
The library is a source of information on all topics and if you have any general problems we can try to put you in touch with the people who can best help you.

Who do I contact if I have a problem?  
A member of staff will contact you from time to time to make sure you are happy with the service.  However you can always contact us by using the address below.   <click here>


Are you interested in volunteering to help run this service?

What am I volunteering for?
North East Lincolnshire Council provides a library and information service to housebound people who because of age, disability, or ill health are unable to get to the library.  By working with North East Lincolnshire Library Services you will be visiting clients in their own homes, providing a friendly face and reliable service.

'....the Home Library Service has made life more enjoyable for me...I look forward to the visits every month...'
A Housebound Reader

As a volunteer you are providing a valuable link between the reader and the library.  You will be expected to visit a housebound reader once a month at an agreed date and time.  You can have one or several readers.  You are not expected to go into someone's home on your own but will have another volunteer with you.  You can use any North East Lincolnshire library to choose books for your reader.

Who can volunteer?
Anyone can volunteer, 18 - 75 years.
It is not essential that you are able to drive as you can be matched with a driver volunteer.

What does each visit involve?

  • Talking to the clients and helping them choose books.
  • Finding out their needs for the next visit.
  • Taking requests and passing them on to library staff.
  • Returning books and other materials. 
  • Keeping records of loans and needs.

Do I get any training or support?
Once enrolled with the service you will have an induction session before visiting your reader. Library staff may be able to give you extra support if you come to the library at a quiet time.  There are regular volunteer get-togethers and a newsletter.  Payment is made for mileage.

Why volunteer?

  • Self-fulfilment
  • Learning new skills
  • Making a difference in the community
  • Making new friends and contacts
  • New interest
  • Appreciation                                                                                

Contact details for volunteers
You can complete the Home Library Service Volunteer on-line form electronically or by printing a copy off, and posting it to the address shown below:                                                   
                                                                                                       
North East Lincolnshire Library Services                                                      <back to the top>
Community Services Department
Community Services Assistant
Cleethorpes Library
Alexandra Road
Cleethorpes

             &nb sp;            &nb sp;
Tel: 01472 323651                                                                

If you have any further queries regarding the Home Library Service please contact the Community Services Assistant or email: librariesandmuseums@nelincs.gov.uk


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Created by   :   Information Assistant, Grimsby Central Library
Last Updated   :   08 May 2008

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