Library loans bring a little more light to winter

Borrowing a library box helped Claire Charlwood feel less alone as winter approached. The East Dunbartonshire borrower found its lamp easy to fit beside her computer and its advice reassuring.

Now Wintering Well is expanding across all four UK nations. The University of Edinburgh reports that 16 library services will share 600 boxes, following more than 1,000 loans since the Scottish scheme began in 2024.

Each kit combines a light-therapy lamp, a guide to indoor and outdoor activities, and access to an online course. North Yorkshire Council also offers lamps people can use inside participating libraries, including Harrogate.

The early evidence includes users’ experiences, rather than a clinical trial proving the boxes treat depression. The NHS says evidence for light therapy remains limited and advises speaking to a GP before trying it, particularly with certain eye conditions or medicines.

For Claire, the booklet offered something valuable alongside practical tips: reassurance that she was not facing the darker months alone.

Sources

• University of Edinburgh — Project brings light to winter blues sufferers across the UK
• North Yorkshire Council — Wintering Well with North Yorkshire Libraries
• NHS — Seasonal affective disorder