Libraries

• leisure learning – exciting courses to inspire and motivate you to learn.

For more information, call 01582 490033, email info@lutonacl.ac.uk or visit www.lutonacl.ac.uk

Libraries play an important role in helping people to improve the quality of their lives and gain access to services.

Libraries provide access to reading, learning, information and IT, where people can read and borrow books and other stock, use a computer or Wi-Fi, discover information, get help from knowledgeable staff and make use of the safe, welcoming community space which they provide. The library service is free to join, with no age limits and is available to all members of the community who live, work or study in the area.

Learning opportunities are available in libraries which enable older people to develop new skills and self-confidence. These include one-to-one IT taster sessions in how to use a computer or trace family history.

Libraries may also offer ‘Virtual Libraries’ where you can download e-audiobooks, e-books, e-magazines, music and more.

If you are unable to leave your home, ask your library if they offer a Home Library Service.

Bedford Borough

Bedford Borough’s library service is provided through five libraries (Bedford, Bromham, Kempston, Putnoe and Wootton), the Mobile Library and the Library Link service for those who cannot visit the library themselves.

Libraries in Bedford Borough offer a range of activities and events, including some specifically for older people such as Knit and Natter. Other activities and advice sessions are delivered in libraries by partner organisations such as Sports Development. Some libraries also offer Tablet Help sessions where a customer can bring in their tablet and staff will show them how to use it.

The Virtual Library, the library service website, provides access to a wide range of resources and information, including downloadable e-books, e-audiobooks, e-magazines, Freegal music download service, online reference books and newspapers.

For more information, visit

www.bedford.gov.uk/libraries

Central Bedfordshire

In Central Bedfordshire, there is a network of 12 libraries, a Library Access Point, a Virtual Library and a Home Library Service that is available to people unable to visit a library.

As well as being a local meeting place, libraries in Central Bedfordshire offer a range of events and activities – some specifically for older people, such as coffee mornings and Knit and Natter. Other activities and advice sessions are delivered in libraries by partner organisations and cover topics such as health, rights and benefits. The Library Service welcomes volunteers and is currently piloting Library Friends Groups.

The Home Library Service provides a library service to people who are unable to reach their local library due to ill-health, mobility limitations, visual impairment or other reasons. It is delivered by library staff supported by volunteers.

The Virtual Library provides a wide range of services online, including e-books, e-audio books, e-magazines and full-text newspapers.