If you find it difficult to visit a library in person due to age, illness, disability, or because you are an unpaid carer, Buckinghamshire Council offers two helpful services to ensure you can still enjoy library books and other items from home.
Library Buddy Service: A friend or family member can borrow and return library books and other items for you using your library card. With a Library Buddy card, you benefit from a 31-day loan period for books and audiobooks, with no overdue or reservation charges. Standard loan periods and charges apply for other items. To apply, ask your friend or family member to visit your local library, where staff will help them join the service for you. You will receive a form to sign and return, after which both cards will be updated and your buddy can start borrowing items for you.
Home Library Service: This is a free monthly service where volunteers deliver books and other library items directly to your home at a convenient time. Volunteers wear identification badges and provide a friendly, courteous service. To apply, fill in an application form or contact the Home Library Service by phone, email, or post. After you apply, the team will contact you within 10 days to assess your eligibility and arrange a home visit. If eligible, a volunteer will be assigned to you and the service will begin.
- Who can use these services? Anyone who cannot visit the library due to age, illness, disability, or caring responsibilities.
- How to apply: For the Library Buddy Service, visit your local library with your chosen buddy. For the Home Library Service, contact the coordinator by phone, email, or post.
- Cost: The Home Library Service is free. The Library Buddy Service offers extended loan periods and no overdue charges for books and audiobooks.
- Contact: Home Library Service Coordinator, Great Missenden Community Library, High Street, Great Missenden, Bucks HP16 0AL. Telephone: 01494 475573. Email: [email protected]
Become a volunteer: If you would like to help others access library services, contact the Home Library Service coordinator for an informal discussion about volunteering opportunities.