North Somerset Council provides a home library service for people who cannot get to a library themselves. Most people join the service because of their own health issues, but the service is available to carers as well. If a person’s caring responsibilities prevent them from getting to a library, the home library service is there to help.

Home library service volunteers have said why they think the service is so special. Pam, a volunteer in Clevedon, said:

“In the past 18 months I’ve been helping five library members to get books and audio books. I go to the library to choose books and also reserve titles online from the Libraries West catalogue to get the authors they like.

“It’s a privilege visiting and getting to know these people. My visits give them an extra person calling in and is really appreciated by family members who provide care or who live too far away to get them books.”

Marion, a volunteer in Portishead, said:

“I currently have four customers including one blind gentleman. The library service provides me with information about the customers including the genre of books they like to read/listen to. I choose books/audio CDs and visit their homes every three or four weeks.

“My customers look forward to my visits, especially as some are housebound. As well as delivering the books I always allow time to have a chat. I find it very interesting to learn about their lives and interests.

“I’m sure there are many people in the community who would benefit from a home volunteers visit but may not be aware of the service.”

If you are interested in receiving the home library service ring 01934 426 657.

If you would like to find out more about becoming a home library service volunteer, go along to the next volunteer open evening at Weston Library in the Town Hall on Tuesday 17 July from 5.45pm-6.45pm. More information is available at: https://northsomersetlibraryvolunteers.wordpress.com/volunteer-roles/.