Selected libraries across North Yorkshire are showcasing a new collection of books designed to support people living with long-term conditions and their carers.
The Society of Chief Librarians and the Reading Agency, with funding from Arts Council England and the Wellcome Trust, has developed the new Reading Well scheme. The books have been chosen in collaboration with health partners, people living with long-term conditions and their carers
The titles cover specific conditions, including diabetes, stroke and asthma, as well as common symptoms, including pain and fatigue. As with existing Reading Well schemes, health professionals can recommend titles on the list to patients. The titles are also available for anyone to borrow for free through their library.
In North Yorkshire, the collections are housed in the libraries at: Bentham, Filey, Harrogate, Knaresborough, Malton, Northallerton, Pickering, Richmond, Ripon, Scarborough, Selby, Sherburn, Skipton, Settle, Scalby and Whitby. All these libraries have the new books on display and the books can be requested for free at all libraries in North Yorkshire.
North Yorkshire County Councillor Greg White, Executive Member for Libraries, said: “North Yorkshire libraries have embraced the Reading Well books on prescription scheme for some years, already focusing on mental health, dementia and issues facing young people. This latest collection adds another strand to the support that people can find at their library, again showcasing libraries’ important role in maintaining the health and wellbeing of the communities they serve.”