AN appeal has been launched for volunteers to help run a popular home library service in Moretonhampstead and Chagford.

Run by the Royal Voluntary Service, organisers of the service want to grow its coverage and attract volunteers to help.

Devon Home Library Service takes books to people who cannot get to a library and is looking for volunteer coordinators who love books and reading.

The role involves liaising with Moretonhampstead and Chagford libraries, managing a network of local volunteers to arrange book deliveries to clients, recruiting new volunteers for the service and building relationships with local community groups to promote the service.

The Devon Home Library Service operates from 50 libraries including Moretonhampstead and Chagford Libraries.

Royal Voluntary Service volunteers choose and deliver books and share their love of reading with service users.

They are regular visitors to people whose mobility and social interaction are limited and provide a check on the safety and well-being of older people.

Cathy Saunders, service manager for Devon Home Library Service, said: ‘For people who enjoy reading or listening to an audio recording but find getting out of the house challenging, this service offers a vital link to the local library. ‘The service enables people to carry on doing something they enjoy and helps alleviate feelings of isolation and loneliness.

‘We want to be able to link even more people to local libraries which is why we’re looking for more volunteer co-ordinators to help us expand the service across Devon.’

No previous experience is necessary as full training is provided and Royal Voluntary Service will also provide guidance on recruiting volunteers.

Volunteer coordinators can enjoy developing their skills and experience, being part of a team and creating something of value for their community.

Volunteers need to be over 17 years old. Driving skills are essential for volunteer coordinators and preferable for volunteers.

Cathy added: ‘Our volunteer coordinators and volunteers are community heroes that make a genuine difference to people’s lives.

‘Working with us to expand Devon Home Library Service is an exciting challenge for anyone with time to give and energy and enthusiasm to offer.’

Royal Voluntary Service is one of Britain’s largest volunteering charities with more than 20,000 volunteers supporting thousands of older people each month in hospitals and the community.

For more information about becoming a volunteer coordinator or volunteer with Devon Home Library Service, call Cathy on 07786 635163, email: Cathy.saunders@ royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk or visit www.royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk.