Do you enjoy reading and chatting about books, magazines, or sharing stories and memories? Could you help connect people by starting conversations inspired by reading?
Reading Friends brings people together to read, share stories, meet new friends, and have fun. We use reading – whether books, magazines, newspapers, or anything else – to start everyone chatting.
You don’t have to be an expert in literature to take part. All that’s needed is a love of reading and a desire to help people feel more connected in their community.
Reading Friends volunteers meet with Reading Friends participants, either one-to-one or in a group, to use reading (in any format) as a way of sparking conversations. Currently, we are completing one-to-one sessions by telephone.
The main activities and tasks of a Reading Friends volunteer include leading group reading activities and facilitating conversations using reading materials as a basis for discussion. You will also need to be aware of sensitive needs within the group, as well as making sure everyone gets involved.
To take part you will need to be friendly and approachable, a good communicator, patient and reliable, confident and – most importantly – you need to love reading.
All volunteers will receive an induction as well as safeguarding training. Regular supervision sessions will be provided for ongoing support and development.
To apply, please contact Denise Green on 01724 296164, or call North Lincolnshire Libraries on 01724 860161.
