| Do I have to be a member of the library service? |
| No, you don’t have to be an existing member of the library. However, if you are not a member you will need to join. Your membership card will then entitle you to use all the library services. |
| What if the book is unavailable? |
| If all copies are on loan to other readers, then the library will obtain a copy for you from another library. They will contact you when it is available. |
| Can books really help? |
| Absolutely - there is very good evidence that books can help people who are experiencing problems. The books have been specially chosen for their quality. Not everyone will be helped in this way – it will depend on how much effort you put into following the guidance given by the book. |
| Is the service confidential? |
| Once you have your prescription, you can take it to the library or get someone else to take it for you. The library staff will treat you with respect - they will not share any information about who is borrowing a book or what it is about. Think of the library staff as you would your local pharmacist – someone who can deliver what is prescribed with professional expertise and ethical practice. |
| What if the book doesn’t help? |
| Books on the list often do prove useful, but they are not going to be effective for everyone. If the book doesn’t help, or you find that your difficulty or distress persists, then you will need to return to your GP (or the person who prescribed the book) to get further advice. There should be follow-up discussions with regard to the prescription with you as a part of the process. |
*Subject to your local library offering the service. For a full list of participating libraries and contact numbers are available on the libraries main website.