Frequently Asked Questions

Q Is the service confidential?
Yes, library staff will not disclose any information about who is borrowing a book or what it is about. It is also possible for someone to collect the book on your behalf.

Q How long can I borrow the book for?
Books can be borrowed for up to six weeks in the first instance and renewed a further two times. Some people may find a book so useful that they decide to buy their own copy. See the full list of available titles.

Q What if the book doesn’t help?
The books on the list often prove to be very effective but they are not always going to work for everyone. If you have tried to use a book but find that your problem or difficulty persists then return to your GP or the health professional who prescribed the book so that further advice can be obtained.

Q Are these books available in other languages or in audio format?
Currently the majority of Books on Prescription titles are only available in written English. As new titles become available in other languages and formats they will be inlcuded on the Books on Prescription listing.

Q Can books really help?
Yes! There is good evidence that books can help people with emotional or psychological problems. The books on the list have all been specially chosen for their quality. To get the most out of the books you may want to set aside a regular time to read the book and follow any advice or instructions it contains.

Q How does the scheme work?
After you have spoken to your GP or health professional take the completed Books on Prescription form to any Southwark library and it will be exchanged for one of the books to borrow. If there is more than one title in a category you can choose the book you would prefer to use. There is no charge for this service.

Q Can I use this service even if I’m not a library member?
Yes! When you go to the library to collect your book, the Books on Prescription form will automatically entitle you to a free library card.

Q What if the book is unavailable?
A.Every library has copies of each book on the Books on Prescription list. If the title that you require is out on loan then another copy will be ordered for you free of charge.