Home library service

The home library service is run by the volunteers from your local community. They choose books and audio books that meet your preferences and bring them to your home every three weeks.

This service is free to anyone who is not able to get to a library and doesn’t have anyone to go for them.

For example, the service can be used by people who are recovering from a long illness or a hospital stay, as well as by people who have a longer term requirement.  

How the service works

You need to contact us to discuss the kind of books or audio books that you like to read or enjoy. We then arrange for a library volunteer to deliver these to you in your home. We offer large print books too.

Our volunteers wear identification badges and whenever possible, we try and arrange for the same volunteer to visit you each time.

There is no charge for requests or late returns. At each visit you can ask us to bring specific books that you want to read, though there may be a waiting list for more popular titles.

We deliver to your own home, to care homes or to sheltered accommodation.

Other services

You may also be interested in the following services as an alternative to the Home Library Service.

Housebound ticket

A ‘housebound ticket’ is slightly different to the home library service. If you are not able to visit a library but have someone who will go on your behalf, you can take advantage of this.

The ticket allows you to borrow up to 16 items at a time and no fines are charged if the items become overdue.

For more information, speak to a staff member at any Swindon library.

eBooks, eAudio, eMagazines and eNewspapers

If you have the internet at home you may prefer to use our 24 hour library where you can download free eBooks, eAudiobooks, eMagazines and eNewspapers. . 

How to request the Home Library Service

If you would like to receive the service, or know someone who does, please get in touch using the details below.