Books on Prescription

What are books on prescription?

Self-help books can be very effective in helping people suffering emotional or psychological problems.

The Lambeth ‘Books on Prescription’ scheme enables high quality self-help books to be prescribed by GPs and other health professionals. These books have been recommended by psychologists and counsellors and can be borrowed from any Lambeth library.

The book list includes titles that cover the following topics

• Anger
• Anxiety
• Assertiveness
• Bereavement
• Caring issues
• Depression
• Eating disorders
• Mood swings
• Obsessions and compulsions
• Panic
• Relationship difficulties
• Self-esteem
• Sexual abuse
• Sleep problems
• Stress
• Trauma
• Worry

Download Books on prescription book list 

How does the books on prescription scheme work?

You can obtain a self-help book from any Lambeth library in 3 easy steps:

• Consult with your GP or Primary Health Care professional to obtain your book prescription.
• Present your prescription to a member of staff at your local library.
• Take your book on loan (if available) home with you.

Frequently asked questions

q. How long can I have a book on loan for?

a. You can borrow a book for an initial 3 weeks and provided that the book is not required by anybody else you can renew it up to six times.

q. If the book I have been prescribed is on loan can the library staff or I choose another book?

a. Yes, library staff will advise you on an alternative title; however you can still put a reservation on the book and have it sent from another library.

q. Do I have to be a member of the library service to make use of the scheme?

a. Yes. If you are not a member you can join the library service by presenting your prescription at any of Lambeth's Libraries 

q. Can I reserve a book online?

a. Yes. Your prescription will waive the reservation fee provided that you present it to a member of library staff upon collection of the book.