Suffolk Community Libraries highlights three ways the library can become more accessible, so you can continue your reading journey and enjoy everything the library has to offer.
Suffolk Community Libraries has 45 branches up and down the county, each filled to the brim with books for you to explore and friendly faces to chat about your new favourite titles with.
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But sometimes it can be difficult to visit in person. Distance, transport and health can all make visits harder.
As part of the Born & Read in Suffolk campaign, the service is highlighting three ways people can still borrow, read and stay connected without stepping into a library building.
1. Mobile libraries
For many rural communities, the mobile library is a regular fixture. They travel to hundreds of stops across Suffolk, calling at villages, estates and small towns on a set timetable.
Stops are often placed in central, familiar locations such as village halls or local shops.
Each vehicle carries a wide range of books. Stock changes often, so there is usually something new on each visit, and library staff are on hand to offer suggestions and help track down titles.
“Our mobile libraries are packed with new books for you to explore, and you can also place reservations for specific titles to be collected on the next route,” said Krystal Vittles, head of library service at Suffolk Community Libraries.
And best of all, reservations are free!
“Simply log in to the online catalogue and search for a title as normal, then make sure you select one of the mobile library routes from the pickup location drop-down menu when placing a reservation,” said Krystal.
“You can view the full timetable on the Suffolk Community Libraries website – just search for your village or town in the top box and see when the next scheduled visit is.”
2. Home Library Service
For residents who cannot reach a branch or mobile stop, the Home Library Service fills the gap.
“If health or mobility problems are preventing you or someone you know from visiting a library branch or mobile library, our Home Library Service volunteers are here to help,” said Krystal.
“Our dedicated volunteers can visit you at home to talk about your reading interests, including audiobooks.
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“Let us know your favourite authors, genres or topics, and our volunteers will select books for you and place the orders through the library.
“They’ll collect the books, deliver them to your home, and return any you’ve finished.”
The service is free and operates across most of Suffolk. It plays a steady role for people with reduced mobility or long term health conditions, but also for those recovering from illness or injury.
Family members and carers often help arrange sign-up, alongside referrals from support services.
Suffolk Community Libraries continues to recruit volunteers for the scheme. The role centres on matching books to readers and maintaining a simple delivery routine.
3. The digital eLibrary
For those who prefer reading on a screen or listening on the move, the digital library offers a third option.
Library members can access a large catalogue of eBooks, audiobooks, newspapers, magazines and films. All are available without charge using a library card.
“Whether you want to read the latest Elly Griffiths novel on our eBook service Libby, listen to Stephen Fry narrate an audiobook on BorrowBox, catch up on the latest news publications from around the world with PressReader, or wind down with free films and documentaries on Kanopy – we’ve got you covered,” said Krystal.
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Titles can be borrowed at any time, then read or played on a phone, tablet or computer. There Headline sponsor are no late fees, as loans expire automatically.
The option suits people fitting reading around work or family life, as well as those who prefer not to travel.
It also offers instant access to new titles without waiting for them to arrive at a local branch.
For further details on mobile routes, home delivery and digital services, visit suffolkcommunitylibraries.co.uk
This story is published as part of Born & Read in Suffolk, a year-long initiative highlighting the importance of reading and writing, delivered in partnership with the National Centre for Writing and Suffolk Community Libraries, sponsored by Sizewell C and and Suffolk Coastal Port Health Authority, and supported by Ipswich Town Football Club. Follow the campaign throughout the year in our coverage and on social media using #BornAndRead2026 or get in touch at readingmatters@newsquest.co.uk
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