Shropshire libraries operating ‘Ready Reads’ click & collect service

Although library branches are closed due to the current lockdown restrictions, Shropshire Libraries are pleased to be offering Ready Reads, a ‘click & collect’ style service offering tailored book choices selected by library staff.

To use Ready Reads customers can complete an online form that includes questions about what sort of books are preferred. Based on that information library staff will put together selections of books then contact the customer once they’re ready to collect.

The form is available on the library webpages .Alternatively the service can be accessed by telephoning one of the participating libraries.

Michael Lewis, Shropshire Council’s Library Service Manager said:

“We offered Ready Reads earlier in the year as we reopened libraries after the first lockdown. The service proved popular with our customers and we loaned several thousand books in this way.

“Many people found they were enjoying books they might not have come across otherwise, so their reading horizons were expanded even though libraries were closed!”

As well as Ready Reads library customers can also take advantage of an extensive range of e-books and e-audiobooks, plus online magazines and newspapers. These can be accessed here.

Lezley Picton, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for culture, leisure, waste and communications, said

“We know that many customers discovered library e-books for the first time during the previous lockdown so I would urge people to take and look and see what’s there, all available free of charge.”

Due to local circumstances Ready Reads will not be available at libraries in Bishop’s Castle, Broseley, Craven Arms, Cleobury Mortimer and Highley.

Please check our library webpages for full details.