Jan 2025
Coombe End Court Launches New Community Book Swap
At Coombe End Court in Marlborough, we’re thrilled to announce the launch of a new community initiative: our very own community book swap!

This inviting little library in a beautifully crafted box is at the top of our drive, close to the entrance to our care home. It was built by handyperson, Martin, using materials generously donated by Fort Builders' Merchant.
Martin, who has a background in carpentry, told us, “It took me about ten hours in total. I enjoyed it, and it was great to have the post and bits and bobs given to us to help with the project.”
The inspiration for this project came from our activities coordinator, Siobhan, a regular visitor with her daughter to book swap stations in Calne. She noticed there was nothing quite like them in Marlborough and saw an opportunity to bring this simple but powerful idea closer to home.
Siobhan says, “My daughter loves to read and there are a few book swaps in Calne. I got the idea from Evie’s Book Swap on Instagram, and I think it’s a lovely thing to have in Marlborough now.”
Now, thanks to her vision and the hard work of our team, anyone in the community can stop by to exchange books or simply pick up something new to read.
Martin pulled the ribbon to officially declare the book swap open, aided by Sheila, a resident at Coombe End Court. She says, “I don’t read as much now as I used to – I used to be an avid reader – and I loved history books. Anything on the Tudors! I think it’s a lovely thing to have here.”
Home manager Kelly agrees, “Lots of the residents here joined us from the Marlborough community and this is a nice way to bring the community to the home. People are always welcome. We’re glad to be able to encourage a love of books and reading.”
A Library for Everyone
The book swap is for readers of all ages and interests. It’s designed to encourage a love of reading, not just among our residents but also for anyone in Marlborough who wants to get involved. Whether you’re a voracious reader or just looking to pass a quiet afternoon, you’ll find something to enjoy in our growing collection – we are always happy to receive donations, just bring them in to our reception.
There’s no need to bring a book to take a book - the focus is on sharing stories and creating connections—because nothing brings people together quite like a good book.
We’ve already seen our residents embrace the book swap with enthusiasm, so don’t be surprised if you get a recommendation next time you’re here!
A Big Thank You
This project wouldn’t have been possible without the creativity of Siobhan, the skill of Martin, and the generosity of Ford Builders' Merchant. Together, they’ve helped create something that will benefit our care home and the wider Marlborough community for years to come.
We invite everyone to visit our community book swap next time you’re passing. It’s at the top of the drive, visible from the road, and not far from the main entrance to our care home. Whether you’re dropping off a well-loved book, searching for your next read, or simply curious, we’d love to see you. You’re welcome to call in if you have time – we’d love to see you.