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Reading for your mental health

Reading provides an escape, a source of solace or something to focus on. It's also a great way to switch off before sleep.

With your library membership you can:

It's free to join our public libraries in Leeds and everyone is welcome to visit any of our buildings to study, socialise or just relax. 

Book collections

Our Reading Well book collections support mental health. They are all recommended by health experts, as well as people with lived experience of conditions. Find more information about Reading Well collections on our website.

Books for adults and children cover:

  • mental health
  • grief and bereavement
  • long term conditions
  • dementia

We also have specially curated book lists on our catalogue and on BorrowBox:

Quiet reading sessions

Bring your own book or borrow one from the library, settle in, and enjoy an hour of peaceful, focused reading alongside fellow book lovers. Find out more information about event listings on our website. Email Leeds.Libraries@leeds.gov.uk about quiet reading sessions in your local library.

Mental health services

Mental health problems are common and can be treated. Find out how we can help you to maintain good health and wellbeing.