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Sept 2020

Last Updated: 08/09/2020

Harrogate

Home library service maintains morale

by Newsroom

| 08 Sept, 2020

Harrogate library volunteers have earned praise for their support over the coronavirus pandemic. The service delivers books to those who cannot collect them in person.

The home library service has earned praise in Harrogate for its support for local people as lockdown restrictions are eased.

The service delivers books to those who cannot select them in person, including people with disabilities, illness and caring responsibilities.es.

The service is run by volunteers and was operating out of libraries across North Yorkshire since before lockdown. As libraries began to reopen, the service has also been restarted.

Doris Guiseley, 92, from Harrogate, said:

“I’ve had the service since I was 80 and to me it is a godsend. I’m an avid reader and can get lost in a good book, it’s what keeps me going. I recommend it to everyone I meet and tell them it’s a brilliant service.”

The Harrogate library volunteers have been praised for their support over lockdown.

Edith Beckley, a 96-year-old from Harrogate, said:

“The volunteers have become friends too and when they couldn’t visit they rang me every week during lockdown just for a chat.”

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The service has now been adapted to ensure the protection of both volunteers and the community. All books are left in a secure place on a pre-arranged date and quarantined after collection.

In July, a Select and Collect service was also launched to allow customers to limit contact whilst collecting books.

County Councillor Greg White, executive member for libraries, said:

“I would encourage more people to take advantage of our brilliant service. If you or someone you know would benefit please get in touch.”