20 October 2011 Last updated at 06:32 ET

Library scheme in Cornwall offers cancer information

Library staff in Cornwall will be able to help people find the information they need

Cancer patients and their families will be able to access help and information from libraries in Cornwall.

The service is a joint initiative by Cornwall Cornwall, Macmillan Cancer Support and the Peninsula Cancer Network.

Libraries will be used as a central hub for books, leaflets, online support and expertise.

Patients will also be able to review and recommend material they have found useful.

Steve Double, of Cornwall Council, said it could be "very daunting" for people affected by cancer to know where to begin to look for information and help.

He said: "Our libraries have a range of books about cancer available for people to read and our staff, who are used to helping people find information, will be happy to help anyone find the right information for them at what is a very difficult time."

Kathryn Radcliffe, lead cancer nurse at the Cornwall trust, said: "It's tough enough being diagnosed with cancer, but not being able to find the right information or get the answers you need can leave you feeling isolated and unsure of what's ahead.

"Our cancer specialists and GPs can help when patients are here at our hospitals or at their surgery, but when patients and their families are at home that's not so easy."