FORT WAYNE, Ind. (ADAMS) – We often take for granted the simplicity of traveling to the library to attend a program or pick out materials. For some, even commuting to do a curbside pickup is not an option.
In Fort Wayne, Library at Home outreach specialists not only bring hand-selected materials to these homebound patrons, but they are also able to provide a small sense of normal through these services.
The Allen County Public Library is putting a spotlight on an often overlooked resource in the community.
“This service is my saving grace – I always look forward to seeing them pull up with new books and a smile.” – Library at Home Patron
In 1921, Allen County began providing outreach materials in the form of deposit collections to hospitals, homes, and general stores. Bookmobiles dominated outreach services until the 1980s, but as individual library branches began extending their reach into the community, outreach services shifted to the elderly and homebound populations.
Today, the Allen County Public Library’s Library at Home program serves the community through lobby stops, facility programming, and home delivery for Allen County residents who may be confined to their home or living institution – at no cost.
ACPL representatives released the following:
The care and attention to detail for these services do not go unnoticed. On delivery days, residents stay close by their windows and doors, waiting to see the bright blue, modern-day bookmobile pull into their driveway or park outside of their living facility. Many wait anxious, ready to scan through their new materials. Others are quick to invite our team in to discuss their latest read, show a recent family photo or just talk about the weather. This is also the case for the unique programming Library at Home provides to residents at various facilities throughout Allen County, including travelogues, slide shows or movies.
Those wishing to utilize the Library at Home delivery service for material drop-off to their home or apartment can contact our team or complete the registration form found on our website.
To participate, patrons must have a valid library card – staff is available to assist with the application process for a library card as needed.
