What is it about?

The Books on Prescription scheme provides mental health workers with an alternative and additional approach to a problem. A doctor or mental health worker writes a “prescription” for a self-help book and the patient then takes that prescription to the library to exchanges it for the book.

There are many self-help books available but our scheme is based on 29 titles recommended by mental health professionals to cover conditions including

  • depression
  • anxiety
  • social phobia
  • panic
  • anger
  • stress
  • low self-esteem
  • eating disorders

Borrowing books on prescription

  • you don't have to be a member of Bolton libraries to take part in the Books on Prescription scheme
  • you can borrow a book for an initial three weeks, or the time allocated by the GP or mental health worker
  • if the book is not immediately available, you will be entitled to a free request. Patient confidentiality is maintained at all times
  • you can return the book to any library within Bolton
  • if you are not part of the scheme, all of the titles listed are also available to borrow with a Bolton libraries membership

If you would like more information on joining the library please visit  Join the Library.

For more information on the 'Reading Well' project please visit  Reading Agency website.