Introducing Southampton’s Sustainable Home Library Service

The Solent Future Transport Zone is delivering a sustainable home library service which brings books directly to people’s doors using green transport. The free service makes accessing books easier for people who are unable to use their local library for health reasons or a disability. Deliveries are made by electric cargo bikes or vans.

The project was recently covered by BBC Radio Solent. You can listen to the story on BBC Sounds at https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0k999ql

You can also find out more in this BBC News article: Southampton: City’s libraries use e-bike book delivery service – BBC News

Councillor Lorna Fielker, Leader of Southampton City Council said of the scheme, “Our Home Library Service is designed to support people’s wellbeing in the city. This fantastic, hassle-free green service means that everyone can enjoy all that our award-winning libraries have to offer. With thousands of titles to choose from, there is something for everyone.”

A user of the service said: “I have had a very good service from the Home Library Service. The selection of books has always been varied which makes them more interesting. The service allows those who are housebound, or nearly so, to have another dimension to their lives. It is a life saver for the disadvantaged”.

Those who are interested in signing up or finding out more can call the libraries team on 023 8083 3007 or email home.delivery@southampton.gov.uk.