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Torbay Libraries aim to serve the whole community. Our Inclusion Services Unit aims to reach out to people who are unable to use the regular service, or who have difficulties using the regular service.
Help with reading and writing
Our libraries have collections of books to help with all levels of reading and writing, inclhding the popular Quick Reads titles. Staff will be happy to assist you choose books that may be of help and interest to you.
Disabled access
All Torbay libraries have access for people with a physical disability, and our Mobile Library is fitted with a wheelchair hoist and grab rails, with the Mobile Librarian always on hand to provide assistance.
Disability information
Each library holds a wealth of information on disabilities in areas such as education, transport and benefits. Our Reference Library in Torquay will also be able to help with more detailed enquiries.
Visual impairment
All of our libraries have a wide range of large print and spoken word books for both adults and children with a visual impairment. You can borrow spoken word CDs free of charge for 21 days.
For Torbay residents, we can arrange subscriptions to the Royal National Institute for the Blind (RNIB) Talking Book Service. Additionally, we subscribe to Clear Vision, an organisation which supplies us with Braille books for children. Please contact the Inclusion Services Coordinator for more information on these services.
Every month, Torquay library hosts a book review club for visually impaired people. For more information please contact the Inclusion Services Coordinator or have a look at our Events and Activities.
Services to residential / nursing homes and sheltered accommodation
If you own or live in a retirement complex, we can arrange to have deposit collections delivered to you. The Inclusion Services Co-ordinator will visit you to discuss your residents' requirements, and you will then receive a deposit collection every 10 weeks, tailor–made to suit your readers' needs.
Services to housebound people
Cooperation with the voluntary agency "Brixham does Care" enables a library service to be provided to some housebound residents in Torbay. If you think you would benefit from this service, or you think you know someone who may, please contact the Inclusion Services Coordinator.
Books while you are in hospital
We provide library books and spoken word tapes to Brixham hospital, where volunteers regularly visit the wards with a selection of books and audio books.
Prime Time - the club for older adults
Paignton library hosts a bi-monthly club for older members. Demonstrations of arts and crafts and invited speakers addressing a range of subjects make for an engaging and sociable afternoon. For information on upcoming meetings have a look at our Events and Activities.
Charges concessions for chronically sick and disabled members
- Exemption from overdue charges
- Up to 3 renewals for audio books
- Free initial loan period for CDs and language courses
- Free reservations
- Reduced rate replacement library card
For further information on any of the services listed here, please contact the Inclusion Services Coordinator on the telephone number below.
Contact Torbay Libraries
- Tel: 01803 208294
- Email: libraries@torbay.gov.uk
- Fax: N/A
