Page contents
- Dementia support in libraries
- Reading Well for Dementia
- Reminiscence Collection
- Interactive Projectors at Surrey Libraries
- Library Direct Home Service
Dementia support in libraries
Dementia is a general term for loss of memory, language, problem solving and other thinking abilities that are severe enough to interfere with daily life.
Surrey Libraries is committed to providing support for those with dementia or a memory impairment or for anyone supporting someone with dementia or a memory impairment.
Alongside our specialist services, we also provide more generalised support:
- Reading material available in all branches of Surrey Libraries
- Events and activities in libraries
Reading Well for Dementia
Reading Well from The Reading Agency, highlights books that are not only recommended and endorsed by GPs and other medical professionals, but also those with experience of the conditions or topics covered. Surrey Libraries takes part in all four schemes, including Reading Well for Dementia.
You can find out more about the collection on the Reading Well webpage.
Reminiscence Collection
This collection is designed for anyone in Surrey who is supporting someone with dementia or memory impairment, whether at home or in a care or group setting. The collection consists of a wide range of materials for use in reminiscence therapy, including books, DVDs, games, flashcards, activities, jigsaws, music and artefacts, all aimed at evoking memories and stimulating discussion and conversation.
You can find out more about the collection on the Reminiscence Collection webpage.
Interactive projectors at Surrey Libraries
Working together with our partner Active Surrey, we now have interactive projection systems at two of our libraries, Ash and Banstead Library, bringing physical activity and movement in a library setting.
Tovertafel interactive table at Banstead library
Working together with our partner Active Surrey, we now have Tovertafel, a projection-based system, installed at Banstead Library.
It is primarily designed for people living with Dementia and adults with learning disabilities but could also appeal to children who thrive with sensory rather than competitive activities. The pre-installed games and activities are designed to conquer apathy by stimulating physical activity and social interaction. The activities can also help strengthen the relationship between professionals and their clients and improves the quality of life for people with a cognitive challenge. It helps to stimulate brain activity in elderly people living with dementia.
You can find out more about Tovertafel on the Tover website or by watching this Tover video on YouTube.
Adults are welcome to come and discover the magic table and enjoy them with their families or carers. Organisations are also welcome to make bookings.
The Tovertafel is available during regular opening times at Banstead Library. Drop in use is available, however slots can be booked in advance. Please speak to library staff or email banstead.library@surreycc.gov.uk.
Obie interactive projector at Ash library
Available at Ash library, Obie is an interactive projector that brings active play to floors, tables, and walls. The projector has pre-installed games, specifically designed to be engaging for children. There is also a senior software package installed that would support people living with dementia.
You can find out more on the Obie for seniors website.
Obie is free to use and available during regular opening times at Ash library, except during Storytime and Rhymetime (Tuesday and Thursday, 10.30am to 11am). Drop in use is available, however slots can be booked in advance. Please speak to library staff, or email ash.library@surreycc.gov.uk.
Library Direct home service
Anyone with dementia, or caring for someone with dementia, who is unable to get to their local library is eligible for our Library Direct Home Service. Library Direct can arrange for books and audio books to be brought to you at home on a regular basis by a volunteer who has been checked by the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
Find out more about Library Direct Home Service.