Bibliotherapy in
the Community
Bibliotherapy is a therapeutic approach that uses literature to help clients better understand and cope with the world around them.
Our Bibliotherapy in the Community programme looks at ways to bring this therapeutic approach to people across Exeter and Devon.
What can you expect from a Bibliotherapy in the Community session?
“Spending some quality time together exploring your reading habits and book choices with the aim of discovering potential new and exciting reading journeys and the endless possibilities of a new reading adventure”
“This will be a gentle introduction to how stories can be good for the soul and help us learn more about ourselves. I’ll be there to listen and make suggestions about what kinds of books might be useful to you, and perhaps even make a recommendation.”
“It’s an opportunity to have a great conversation in which you feel heard and valued, with the topic of books (in its widest sense) as the focus.
I always feel more connected and inspired afterwards, and likely with another book or two to add to the to read list!”
Previous Bibliotherapy in the Community workshops
Bibliotherapy Book Hour - Exeter Library
In 2024, Trainees from our Introduction to Bibliotherapy Skills course held drop in sessions at Exeter Library to give people a taste of bibliotherapy with some tailored reading recommendations.
"It genuinely always feels so connecting and nourishing, no matter who I chat to, or what books we chat about."
Bibliotherapy Trainee Harula
Whipton Barton Junior School
Families from Whipton Barton Junior School signed up to participate in free bibliotherapy sessions with Susan Elderkin from The Novel Cure this June and July.
Each family received a 'book prescription' tailored to their individual reading levels, interests, and well-being needs. Exeter City of Literature provided three of the books from each family's list.
“I'm sure that the copious amounts of reading I began after talking to you really helped me to focus, and to remember what I knew about books and literature in general.”
Feedback from Parent
