1 . Essex Library Services Reading Friends

What is the role about?

Reading Friends is an exciting UK-wide programme from The Reading Agency. It’s been piloted in some other parts of the country over the last few years and now is being extended to Essex.

Developed with funding from the National Lottery Community Fund, Reading Friends deals with loneliness by bringing people together to read, chat and share stories. Essex Library Services is looking for volunteers to support the roll- out of the Reading Friends programme across Essex.

What will it involve?

*Chatting to people, either one to one, or in groups, using reading to get people talking. Contact will be via phone or computer initially. After restrictions are lifted, it is planned to do in-person sessions (活动时间) in libraries.

*Using reading — whether books, magazines, newspapers, or anything else — to start conversations. Nothing needs to be read before the session.

What skills and experience do you need?

*An interest in people

*Good communication and people skills

*Love of books and reading is not necessary, but would be a bonus

What will you get from volunteering?

*The satisfaction of contributing to the community and potentially preventing loneliness

*The chance to share the joy of reading

*Develop your experience and skills to enhance your resume (简历)

*A certificate of appreciation for coming along and helping out, which looks great on a resume

1. Who does the Reading Friends programme aim to help?

A．People feeling lonely.	B．People wanting to change a job.
C．People wanting to publish their stories.	D．People having special educational needs.

2. What is a requirement for potential volunteers?

A．Having previous work experience.	B．Reading related books in advance.
C．Living in restrictions-lifted areas.	D．Being communicative.

3. What will the volunteers get from their volunteering?

A．A trip to Essex.	B．A certificate of appreciation.
C．A fund from the government.	D．An opportunity to work in libraries.