Washington Public Library offers distribution program

WASHINGTON - Citizens in Washington now have the opportunity to check out library books without even leaving their homes.

The Washington Public Library has relaunched its program, Homebound Delivery, where staff members will drop off books for those who cannot get to the library to check them out themselves.

Jenisa Harris, youth services librarian, said the program was started by a former librarian and was picked up again this year. The program is available to anyone in the community who cannot make it to the library and would like to check out books.

To participate, patrons have a packet to fill out with information such as their address and library card number, she said. They are allowed to check out up to three books at a time and keep them for two weeks with delivery happening weekly.

Adult and patron services librarian Tammy Valentine just took over the program Monday. When it comes to choosing books, she said, the patron can ask for specific books, types of books or even favorite authors.

'We have a good conversation with them to determine what they like and what they need as far as large print or regular print. Some people don't read and would rather have a DVD so we do that as well,” she said.

Staff drop the books off themselves at the same time and day each week to ensure a schedule for those who are using the service, she said.

'Whatever it is they need, we try to accommodate them,” she said.

Those with library cards can visit the website and research which books they would like and have titles ready to request when the librarian comes to drop off books, she said. So far about 20 people are signed up and receiving books regularly.

'It's a very nice program. I'm very excited to be a part of it,” she said.

Anyone interested in signing up is encouraged to contact the Washington Public Library at: 319-653-2726.