A Little Extra Light This Winter at Your Local Library

As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop,

Libraries NI is reminding people across Northern Ireland that a little extra light could help brighten their winter routine.

SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) lightboxes are available to borrow free of charge in all public libraries across Northern Ireland, offering customers a simple way to incorporate light therapy into their day during the darker months.

For many people, winter can bring a noticeable change in mood, energy levels and motivation. Reduced exposure to natural daylight can affect our body clocks and sleeping patterns, while some people experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression associated with seasonal changes.

SAD lightboxes are designed to simulate natural daylight and may help alleviate some of these symptoms, providing an additional option for people looking after their wellbeing during the winter months.

Using a lightbox can easily become part of a visit to the library. Customers can settle down with a good book, catch up on some reading, enjoy a quiet activity or simply take a little time for themselves while using the lightbox.

There's no need to book, and library staff are available to explain how to use the equipment.

Deirdre Nugent, Libraries NI Services Manager, said:

"The darker winter months can affect people in different ways, and even small changes to our daily routines can help us look after our wellbeing.

"Our libraries offer welcoming spaces where people can take some time for themselves, enjoy a good book, connect with others or simply relax. Having SAD lightboxes available is another way we can support people in our communities, particularly at a time of year when natural daylight is limited.

"We would encourage anyone who feels the effects of the darker days to call into their local library and find out more about the lightboxes. It's a free service that's easy to access and can fit into an everyday library visit."

Take a little light home

As well as using a lightbox during a library visit, customers aged 16 and over can borrow one to use at home for three weeks, just like borrowing a book.

This gives customers the flexibility to incorporate light therapy into their own daily routine, at a time that suits them.

Tips for using a SAD lightbox

• Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for the particular lightbox.

• Lightboxes are generally used for around 20–30 minutes, although recommended times can vary.

• Sit comfortably near the lightbox without looking directly into the light.

• Morning use is generally recommended, as using a lightbox later in the day may affect sleep.

• Speak to your GP before using light therapy if you have an eye condition, take medication that increases sensitivity to light, have bipolar disorder or have other health concerns.

SAD lightboxes are available to use free of charge in public libraries across Northern Ireland during normal opening hours throughout the winter.

Click here to find your nearest library or enquire about borrowing a lightbox, visit or speak to a member of library staff.