What is Books on Prescription?
Many people in Wolverhampton suffer from depression, anxiety or other emotional problems at some stage during their lives.
Books on Prescription is a way in which we can help and support people with emotional problems. Your GP, practice counsellor or Community Mental Health Team member can prescribe a book from a list of self-help books selected by Health Care professionals and available from Wolverhampton Libraries. Just take the prescription to the Central Library or your local library and collect the book you have been prescribed.
Is there a charge for this?
This service is provided free of charge.
Do I have to be a library member?
No. Just take your prescription to your local library. If you are not a member of the library you can join there and then. You do not have to provide proof of ID or fill out any forms. Or you can join online.
Then you can borrow your prescribed book or any other book, CD or DVD in our collection.
What if the book is not available?
We have several copies of each book. If all are being used by other readers we will reserve it for you free of charge and let you know when it is ready for you.
You can check the library catalogue online to find out which Wolverhampton library has your book in stock.
How long can I keep the book?
You can keep the book for at least 8 weeks and may be able to renew it.
What sort of problems can the books help with?
The books cover a wide range of common topics - including: anxiety, anger, depression, self-esteem, stress and worry. Open the file below to see a list of the books in the Books on Prescription collection.
Is the scheme confidential?
Health workers and Library staff are professionals; you will be treated with respect and all information is kept confidential.
How will this help me?
Many of the books are self-help versions of other treatments. They offer a way of helping you to help yourself to take control of your life.
What if the book doesn’t help?
If you read the book you have been prescribed and it does not help you should return to your GP for further advice. The library will also contain further information about local groups or national organisations that may be able to help – ask any librarian for details.
Books on Prescription is operated in partnership between Wolverhampton Libraries and Wolverhampton City NHS Primary Care Trust.
All of the books in the collection are freely available and can be borrowed without prescription if you prefer.