Reaching out with reading groups
Bexley Libraries with funding from the DCMS/Wolfson Fund
worked with Bexley Social Services, Age Concern and the
WRVS to encourage, promote and help to develop the reading
habits of older people. Embracing the housebound and more
active elderly, the project used book reviewing and reading
group events to stimulate interest in books beyond traditional
library membership. Reviews appeared in a monthly
newsletter available through libraries, day centres, homes
and sheltered accommodation, and to housebound users, and
ultimately on a website. Contact 020 8320 4055.
Listen
'Ear, - taping reading recommendations
Time to Read, the North West Book
Promotion Partnership of library authorities, supported by NYR funding,
worked with a radio journalist to produce Listen 'Ear, a tape of reading
recommendations and favourite extracts from housebound visually impaired
and elderly library members. This is on sale: the idea is that purchasers
such as library authorities, hospitals and social services will be able
to loan them or sell them on to clients. Contact 0161 483 6437
for further information.
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