The library is more than just a lending service however. It offers friendship, contact and conversations for people who might otherwise feel isolated or lonely. By listening and chatting, our trained volunteers can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Whilst the books are important, feedback from care home residents and other users is that they really value the opportunity to socialise with volunteers – for many, these are the only visitors they may receive.

The service has been running since 1949, initially operating from the homes of volunteers and then a small hut at the St John HQ, before moving to the current home adjacent to the St John training hall.

2014 saw our library volunteers win a Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, which is an outstanding achievement. Two volunteers attended a garden party at Buckingham Palace and an award and certificate were presented to volunteers by His Excellency the Lieutenant Governor at Government House, at the Queen’s official birthday celebrations in June that year.