Patients at Derriford Hospital will have a literary delight thanks to a donation of more than 300 books to the hospital’s library.

The books, which include titles for both children and adults, have been donated by the WHSmith Books for Hospital initiative which is now in its third year.

The library service at Derriford Hospital is operated by the charity WRVS.

Pat Hamilton, Derriford Hospital library’s Volunteer Co-ordinator for the WRVS, said: “This donation is incredibly important to us. We get a lot of books from patients and staff but these are brand new and they are invaluable to us. All the volunteers put in a lot of work because we cover 25 wards.”

Shaun Mann, Derriford’s Contracts Manager, said: “We are delighted that WHSmith has chosen Derriford Hospital to make this donation. It is a fantastic initiative and one which will be used and enjoyed by many of our patients and their families.”

Amanda Whitlock, WRVS South West Service Delivery Manager, said: “These books will be used for our hospital trolley service, which provides a really important service for those who have to stay in hospital.

“Our volunteers also spend time with the people who use the service, offering friendship and support to make their time in hospital a little bit quicker. Without the volunteers there would be no library and anyone who wants to help should come and talk to Pat in the library.”

Blanche Hodgson, Manager of the WHSmith store in Derriford Hospital, said: “We’re really excited to have the opportunity to support our local hospital and help to improve library facilities for patients and staff. It’s a great way for the staff of WHSmith to get involved with their local community and help promote literacy.”

There was also a donation of 15 Kobo e-readers which will be used by the WRVS throughout Plymouth as part of the Good Neighbours scheme.

Published: Friday 3 August 2012