Shared reading groups

Reading Friends (opens new window) shared reading groups currently meet in Calne, Royal Wootton Bassett, Salisbury, Trowbridge, Warminster and Westbury libraries. They run independently under different names but collectively they are known as Reading Friends shared reading groups.

The groups are aimed at anyone who enjoys reading and the positive effect this can have on mental wellbeing. This benefits everyone but can support people living with loneliness, depression, anxiety and bereavement or loss. Shared reading can also be suitable for people with memory loss, dementia and their carers. No prior knowledge or reading is required before a session.

The sessions are free of charge and offer an enjoyable, relaxing opportunity to meet others and stimulate positive memories, in a friendly supportive group conversation.

What happens at a shared reading group

What happens at a shared reading group:

• everyone listens to stories and poems read aloud by a facilitator
• we share responses and memories if we want to
• no-one is expected to read, unless you would like to
• the stories and poems are a mix of traditional and new
• the groups are small, friendly and stimulating with no pressure

How to get involved

If you would like to try out shared reading just come along to any of the groups. For further information, contact the library or email libraryenquiries@wiltshire.gov.uk (opens new window).

Poetry, tea and chat online sessions

We hold monthly Reading Friends poetry, tea and chat sessions on the library Facebook pages. You can catch up with past sessions on the Wiltshire Libraries YouTube channel (opens new window).