About the Memory Box Service

Memory Boxes are themed collections of objects and images used for reminiscence work which encourages, values and shares experiences. They can be used by a wide group of people such as schoolchildren and people in residential homes. We have the following boxes:

• Childhood Memories
• Entertainment
• Fashion & Clothing
• Housewives' Choice
• Schooldays
• Wartime

They are available for loan to:         

• Individuals
• Charities
• Residential care homes
• Schools
• Health workers
• Community Groups

All you need to know about Memory Boxes:

Is there a charge for borrowing the memory boxes? There is no charge for borrowing them but if you want to reserve a memory box that is already on loan there is a 90p reservation charge. Like other library items there is a charge if you bring the memory box back late.

How long can I keep the memory box for? Memory boxes may be borrowed for 2 weeks.

Do I have to be a library member to borrow the memory box? Yes, to join - just follow this link

Can I borrow a memory box from any library in Northumberland? Yes, the memory boxes are kept at Morpeth Library but can be requested from and sent to any of our branches for local pick up.

How do I go about booking a memory box? You need to fill in a memory box booking form and hand it in to your local library or send it to Shirley Cross (Tel: 01670 500397) at Morpeth Library, Gas House Lane, Morpeth, NE61 1TA or by email shirley.cross@northumberland.gov.uk  We will contact you when the memory box is ready to collect.

Is there any help or training available on how to get the most out of the memory boxes?  Northumberland Care Trust currently offers free training for staff in care homes throughout Northumberland on how to hold reminiscence sessions. For staff in private sector residential homes training can be accessed via Deborah Brown, Northumberland Care Alliance (Tel: 01670 394441). For staff in public sector residential care homes, please apply via your manager to the staff development unit.

Are there any other memory box training guides available? The Library Service has produced a couple of fact sheets giving advice on how to make the most of your memory box. These are available in the right menu.