Libraries are despatched from MSSC direct to ships in UK ports or through overseas depots and Seafarers Centres.
They are normally renewed three times a year, by the same routes, or can be exchanged with other ships.
Libraries are usually made up of two thirds fiction and one third non-fiction titles, including a selection of reference books.
The size of each library can vary between 50 and 500 books depending on specific requirements.
The contents of a library are selected from the Society's very comprehensive stock of books (to which new titles are added daily) to cater for a broad spectrum of tastes. Specific requests for particular subjects, authors or titles can be met.
Ships with crew members whose first language is not English can be supplied with specially selected, easy to read books, in the interest of promoting safety at sea and the use of English as the international maritime language.
Non-returnable paperbacks are also available for sale to supplement the exchange libraries.
Contributions towards the cost of the service are made annually by parent companies in advance and include the cost of carriage.
The current tariff is £2.24 per book.
For enquiries please contact Alison Harris,
Book Services Manager, on 020 7654 7008