Books on Prescription

What is it?

The Books on Prescription Scheme enables healthcare professionals to ‘prescribe’ self-help books to people to help deal with different emotional problems. Many people find that these books are able to help them overcome their particular problems.

The Books On Prescription Booklist(pdf, 3426KB)

What sort of problems can it help with?

The recommended books address a wide variety of emotional problems ranging such as depression, stress, domestic abuse and coping with an addiction (please see booklist for full range).

Will the book definitely help me?

Although many people find the self-help books very useful; like a lot of treatments, not everyone finds them helpful. If you feel the book is not helping, it is a good idea to return to your GP or healthcare professional.

What do I do with my prescription?

Hand your prescription in at your nearest participating library and you will be given your prescribed book. There are eight participating libraries:

• Richmond Library
• Twickenham Library
• Teddington Library
• East Sheen
• Hampton Library
• Whitton Library
• Ham Library
• Castelnau Library

Do I have to use the prescription given to me?

No. You are able to take the listed books out at your local library with or without a prescription. If you use your prescription however you will gain the longer loan period of six weeks. You are also able to renew your book after this period, as long as another customer has not reserved it.

How long do I get to keep the book for?

As above; you will be given a loan period of 6 weeks for your prescribed book. After this the book can be renewed up to 3 times.

What if my book isn’t available?

If all copies of your prescribed self-help book are unavailable, a free request will be made for you and you will be notified when your book becomes available.

Confidentiality

Library staff will act in the same manner as pharmacist staff for example and will respect your privacy and maintain confidentiality of your details.

Do I have to be a member of the Library?

No. Your book prescription will automatically enable you to become a member of the library if you are not already a member.

Filling out exercises from the books

Some of the books have exercises for you to fill out. It is a good idea to do these, but please do not write directly in the books. Photocopiers are available for copying pages.

Reading Groups

Many people find that it is easier and more enjoyable to read books in groups.Information about reading groups organised by Richmond Libraries is available here

What happens after I have read the book?

Once you have completed your book you may wish to return to your GP or other healthcare professional and discuss what, if any, further treatment needs to be given.