Memory boxes and dementia resources

Library volunteers and staff have created the following memory boxes with different themes to facilitate reminiscence activities.

• Make-Do and Mend memory box
• Men in Mind memory box
• Childhood memory box
• Day Trips and Excursions memory box
• School Days memory box
• Arts and Crafts memory box
• Remembering the 50's memory box
• Library memory box: Bunty for girls 1974
• First Home memory box
• Remember When memory box
• Celebrating World War II memory box
• Sport memory box

Individuals or community groups with a library card can borrow the memory box up to 3 weeks for free and renew the loan if required. While there is no hiring charge, standard library reservation fee and exemption rules apply.

Please ask library staff to reserve the memory box for you or email Your.Library@cambridgeshire.gov.uk. We will send the memory box to your local library for you to collect.

Cambridgeshire Libraries have jigsaw puzzles and game sets designed specifically for people who are affected by dementia or other cognitive conditions. These games are enjoyable and can encourage interaction when played with other people.

• Jigsaw puzzles – These puzzles are soothing yet stimulating, with varying degree of challenges. They come in 13 pieces, 35 pieces, 63 pieces or 100 pieces.

• Aquapaints – These are designed as an arts activity. They require only water and a paintbrush to bring out the vibrant colours of the illustrations.

• Marble maze games – These games aim to challenge eyes and hands coordination. They can help alleviate stress while encouraging a sense of independence.

• Snakes & Ladders and Ludo – A box set of two iconic board games helps improve engagement and is meant to be enjoyed with others.

• Musical Bingo – A fun audio game helps to build connections with family or among a group of peers. Borrowers will need a CD player, or have access to a laptop or a smart device to play the audio files via web browser.

These resources are free for anyone to borrow on their library card. While there is no hiring charge, standard library reservation fee and exemption rules apply. To make a reservation, please ask library staff or email Your.Library@cambridgeshire.gov.uk. We will send the game set to your local library for you to collect.

Many of our libraries also have other jigsaw puzzles donated by customers. Everyone is welcome to use them in libraries or take them home to enjoy.

You can find the following book resources and make reservations on Cambridgeshire Libraries dementia resources online catalogue.

• Books about Dementia – Our book stock includes Reading Well for Dementia recommended by the Reading Agency, other related titles providing information and advice, and stories of lived experiences. Some of these titles are available on eBook platforms Libby (Overdrive) and BorrowBox for Cambridgeshire Libraries members to access for free
• Pictures to Share – These are pictures books with no text, designed to engage and share enjoyable time together with someone who experiences communication or emotion difficulties. 
• Carers Booklist – We have collated a list of book titles offering practical information and shared experiences to support carers.