Reading Well - books to support your health and wellbeing

The Reading Well scheme is delivered by The Reading Agency in partnership with Libraries Connected and Arts Council England. It helps people manage their own health and wellbeing through recommended self-help books.

Research has shown that books can work well either on their own or in conjunction with other forms of treatment and 91% of people surveyed found their book helpful.

Reading Well for Mental Health

This scheme is available from St Helens Library Service and offers a range of expertly endorsed self-help books, which have proven value in helping people with common mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, anger, and panic attacks.

View the full list of books available through the scheme.

Reading Well for Dementia

The Reading Well for Dementia scheme includes a range of books providing information and advice about dementia as well as personal stories. 

View the full list of books available through the dementia scheme.

Reading Well for Long Term Conditions

St Helens Library Service also offers the Reading Well for long-term conditions books. The book list covers general advice and information about living with a long-term condition such as arthritis, bowel conditions, diabetes, heart disease and stroke. 

Download the full list of books available through the long-term conditions scheme.

Reading Well for Children

The Reading Well for Children book list supports the mental health and wellbeing of children aged 7-11, providing children and their families and carers with information, advice, and support for coping with feelings and worries, daily life and getting through a tough time.

Download the full list of books available through the Reading Well for Children scheme.

Reading Well for Young People

St Helens Library Service also offers a Reading Well scheme for 13-18 year-olds called 'Shelf Help', which includes a range of books offering high-quality information, support and advice on mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, self-harm and difficult life pressures such as bullying and exams. 

Download the full list of books available through the young people's scheme.

How do I access the schemes?

Your GP or health professional may recommend a book for you or you can visit any library in St Helens and take out the books free of charge.