Release date: 7 March 2023
This month, head down to your local library to join in with West Sussex Libraries’ Wellbeing Month and find out the many ways libraries can support your wellbeing.
Reading has so many benefits for our mental health, it can reduce stress, promote relaxation and empathy, provide escapism and boost your mood. To help you find the perfect book to do just that, our library staff have put together a list of recommendations for books to boost your mood.
In your local library you will find ‘Unwind, Recharge and Relax’ displays which have a wide range of books that support wellbeing, including fiction, non-fiction, biographies and children’s books - something for everyone!
Libraries also have special Reading Well booklists signposting to relevant books on mental health for adults, young people and children, long-term health conditions and dementia.
All of the books on these lists are available from your local library and are free to reserve and borrow. If you can’t visit the library, it can come to you with the Home Library Direct service.
Duncan Crow, Cabinet Member for Community Support, Fire & Rescue, said: “Local libraries are at the heart of our communities and Wellbeing Month is a great opportunity to showcase how they can support you with your wellbeing, not just throughout March but all year round.
“As part of our Council Plan we have committed to helping people to fulfil their potential and libraries play a vital part in that. This initiative also helps to promote and enable independence with the use of digital library services.”
It’s not only a great selection of books you will find at the library, but many regular activities for all ages including special wellbeing themed storytimes, and the launch of a new Melody for the Mind group at Chichester library on 14 March. Melody for the Mind are informal singing groups, open to all and dementia-friendly.
During Wellbeing Month, there are also drop-in sessions at some libraries from Age UK, Early Help, HILS Meals on Wheels, Mind and the Wellbeing Hubs as well as some taster reminiscence sessions.
Keep an eye on our Library Service Facebook and Twitter accounts to find out what else will be happening during Wellbeing Month!
