Southampton Libraries Promote Eco-Friendly Home Book Delivery Service

The library service in Southampton is promoting its complimentary home delivery program, which utilizes environmentally friendly transportation. This initiative allows residents who cannot leave their residences to receive books delivered to their doors via e-bikes. Solent Future Transport Zone provides funding for this service, which is part of various sustainable transport trials occurring throughout the Solent region. Lorna Fielker, the city council leader, stated that the home library service was “designed to support people’s wellbeing.” She added, “The fantastic, hassle-free green service means that everyone can enjoy all that our award-winning libraries have to offer.” Anne Bothwell, a resident of Southampton, is a frequent user of the service, having received over 70 books this year. She mentioned being part of a book group with long-time friends, from whom she receives recommendations. “I found it very difficult to get out on my own so this scheme is ideal for me,” she commented. She further noted, “I like novels, politics, memoirs, occasional detective stories. When the books arrive it’s like a treat each week.” Diana Brookes, another satisfied customer, expressed that the service has allowed her to continue her lifelong passion. She stated: “I’ve been reading books from libraries since I was five years old. The home library service enables me to carry on reading.” She added, “I can’t afford to keep buying books and anyway I like the surprise that you get. It’s like birthdays or Christmas.” Readers can find BBC Hampshire & Isle of Wight on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding their approach to external linking is available.