Shropshire Libraries to extend Shared Memory bags scheme

Shropshire Libraries is to launch five new Shared Memory bags at an event at Oswestry Library on Saturday 4 March 2017.

Largely funded by a grant from the Mary Hignett Bequest (administered by the Rotary Club of Oswestry), the new bags contain Pictures to Share books and tactile items to trigger memories and are designed to be easy to carry. They can be borrowed by those living with dementia for use at home or by those leading group reminiscence activities. Each bag is based on a theme and the featured topics are travelling, world of work, pets, childhood days, and sporting life.

Heather Rodenhurst, team librarian, said:-

“We’re very grateful to the Rotary Club of Oswestry for funding creation of the bags, and are delighted that the new additions now take the number of Shared Memories bags held by Shropshire Libraries to ten in total. We know how useful these resources are and it is good to be able to loan them for three weeks at a time, free of charge, to where they are most needed.”

Stuart West, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for leisure and culture, said:-

“Shropshire Libraries already offer a range of dementia-friendly services, such as Books on Prescription for Dementia. There is high demand for their existing loanable Shared Memories resources, and it is heartening to know that the scheme is doubling in size to allow more Shropshire residents and group members to benefit from the feelgood effects of reminiscence.”

Those interested in using the new bags can view them from 1.30pm on Saturday 4 March, while an afternoon tea and memory sharing session for those living with dementia and their carers will follow from 2.30pm until 4pm. This is a free event but spaces are limited – please contact Oswestry Library on 01743-255031 or email oswestry.library@shropshire.gov.uk to pre-book a place.

For more information on the Shared Memory bags scheme, contact Heather Rodenhurst on 01743 255031 or email heather.rodenhurst@shropshire.gov.uk.