TCF Catharine Pointer Memorial Library
The Compassionate Friends Postal Lending Library is for bereaved parents, their families and those who seek to help them.
The library contains more than 1,500 titles on all aspects of bereavement, and also audio-visual items. Many bereaved people find reading about the experiences of others who have been through a similar tragedy very helpful in coming to terms with their own loss. TCF helps parents, grandparents and siblings to cope with their loss and the library collection reflects these core needs, but it is often able to respond to those with related needs, such as children and young people who have lost a parent in childhood.
Books and other media can only be loaned within the UK. While the TCF Library is an essential part of our support given to bereaved families and professionals, running it is expensive. We therefore charge a membership fee (plus postage costs). However, library membership is free of charge (except for postage costs) to TCF members. If you only require a ‘one-off’ parcel of books, a small handling charge will be made, plus postage costs. Annual membership is also available to non-TCF members including professionals. Details available on request.
We also have a few "difficult to trace" books available for sale within the UK, so please ask for our 'for sale' list.
Many families support the library by donating a book to the library in memory of the child who has died. The Library keeps a list of books (some new and some copies of existing titles) that are needed. Those donating a book receive a bookplate which they complete with their child's name. We can also insert a small photograph next to the bookplate, if desired. Please complete the form below to receive information about this scheme and any other information you require regarding our library.
How to use the Library
You can request books by filling in and submitting the form below. We will send you a Library Membership form to complete and, on receipt of this, send you a selection of books. Telling us about your own situation will help us to choose the most suitable titles for you. Alternatively, you can order our Library Catalogue and choose your own titles. The Library will always, on request, help you choose the most suitable titles for your own situation.
Please fill in as many fields as possible. Fields marked with a * are required information, and will allow us to get in touch with you later.
Postal enquiries can be sent to:
TCF Postal Library Service
37 Barking Road
Needham Market
Suffolk
IP6 8EZ
Email:- library@tcf.org.uk
Telephone enquiries can be made on the following telephone number:-
+44 (0)1449 722413
(An ansaphone service is available when the library is not open)