Reading has long been associated with positive mental health. It is theorised that reading has many positive benefits, from developing empathy and improving memory to reducing stress and providing an escape from the real world.
In Lincoln, we have a number of community bookshelves. Here, you can find your next read or donate your old books.
Railway Reads
Railway Reads is tucked away outside the signal house you pass as you walk to Minerva building from Brayford Warf East. It is stocked with all sorts of books and even some DVDs.
Nest Nursery Bookshelf, Portland Street
Hidden away on a little residential street just off the high street is the Nest Nursery bookshelf. This bookshelf is managed by the nursery just behind it, and is packed full of books for children and adults alike.
Café Nero bookshelf, St Marks
There is another community bookshelf in the corner of this cozy coffee shop. Just to the left of the counter, you will find a selection of fiction and non-fiction books. The cafe also welcomes donations of your old books.
Sarah Swift
When this article was first published in 2023, our very own Sarah Swift building had a community bookshelf in the foyer, under the stairs. Recently, a new Costa Express machine has been installed where this bookshelf once was. Now, I’ll be honest, I haven’t been to check out this new area myself, so I can’t say if the community bookshelf is still there. However, the area is still worth mentioning because it is a hidden gem on campus: coffee and comfy seating, tucked away from the busy campus, with a huge window for people-watching. You may also find a hard copy of Digipsych here…