Initiative aims to establish book clubs for older people in nursing homes in county 

Cork County Council Library and Arts Service have launched a new initiative that will help to establish book clubs for older people across the county.

The new free service, aimed at older people in nursing homes and those attending day care centres, was launched this week at Amberley Nursing Home and Cottages, one of the many centres that receive regular visits from the council’s Mobile Library Service.

In recognition of different needs and preferences, multiple formats of books will be available to choose from, including audiobooks on CD, large print titles, quick reads, and adult novellas, from popular authors, with buff coloured paper for glare avoidance and short story collections.

It will also be possible to download an e-book or e-audio book title through the ‘Borrowbox’ app where font size can be customised to the readers’ preference.

Support will be available for activities personnel in nursing homes and day care centres to help organise and set up the book club for their patrons.

Books can be delivered by the Mobile Library, as part of its schedule, or collected from the local library.

Welcoming the initiative, mayor of the county of Cork, councillor Joe Carroll said: “The new Book Club service is a welcome addition to the range of services offered by Cork County Council for older persons.

“Our libraries host regular talks on a variety of topics such as health and local history, as well as providing a space for knitting and craft groups to meet.

“There are so many benefits associated with being part of a book club, including making new friends, keeping your brain active and young, and the joy of discovering new books.

“I encourage nursing homes and day care centres across the county to avail of this wonderful new service.”

CEO of Nursing Homes Ireland, Tadhg Daly, said: “With this initiative, we are bringing the local community closer to our nursing homes, ensuring that everyone has access to enriching experiences, regardless of age.

“Supporting this launch during NHI NationalNursing Homes Week is especially meaningful, with over 250 nursing homes participating in the celebrations.

“It is a perfect opportunity to honour the vibrant lives of residents and the dedicated staff who care for them.

“We look forward to growing and strengthening this wonderful initiative for residents and encourage all local councils to consider similar partnerships.

“Nursing Home residents look forward to the regular mobile library visits and we look forward to seeing such initiatives rolled out across the country in the future.”

For further information, including a list of available titles, contact bookclubs@corkcoco.ie or call 021 4546499.