Library
The 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 2000 unique titles on all aspects of bereavement. Many bereaved parents find reading about the experiences of others who have been through a similar tragedy very helpful in coming to terms with their own loss. The library collection reflects their core needs but is also able to respond to those with related needs, such as children and young people who have lost a parent.
Access and search the The Compassionate Friends Library here.
(Please note: Mary, our Librarian writes... “Although, the library catalogue can now be accessed here, it is still very much a work in progress and more books will be added as quickly as possible. If the category, or the book, you are looking for is not there it is not because it’s less important but simply because I haven’t got to it yet. If you have any questions about the catalogue or the library in general please email me on library@tcf.org.uk. There are well over a thousand books in our library, and I’m taking this opportunity to make sure we have all the books we should have and that there are none being kept which are no longer relevant, so this is a bit of a challenge. However I do hope to have the entire library properly catalogued, and accessible to all, as soon as possible. I am, and always will be, very happy to suggest or choose books for you if you’d prefer that. With best wishes, from Mary”
Library membership is free of charge to TCF members (except for postage costs) and annual membership is also available to non-TCF members including professionals (details available on request). Books and other media can only be loaned within the UK.
The Memorial Book Scheme
Many families support the library by donating a book in memory of their 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 to 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 any other information you require regarding our library.
How to use the library
You can also 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.
All information will be treated in the strictest confidence and will not be passed to anyone outside TCF.
Postal enquiries and books for return can be sent to:
The Compassionate Friends - Library
20 Abinger Drive
Lordswood
Kent ME5 8UL
Email: - library@tcf.org.uk
Telephone enquiries can be made on the following number:
+44 (0)1634 666353
(An answerphone service is available when the library is not open)
Support our work
Each year thousands of parents suffer the loss of a son or a daughter. Please help TCF to support families in their time of greatest need.
Tell us what you think
Whatever your contact with TCF we encourage you to give us feedback so that we can continue to improve our support.