The Oak Park Public Library has offered a free Home Delivery Service for over 60 years. The service has grown from serving less than ten patrons to nearly 60 patrons. Currently volunteers make the deliveries to patrons ranging from 30 to 96 years of age. While reading tastes vary, romance and mystery authors are especially popular. A Home Delivery patron reading the Harry Potter novels said, "I want to see what those young people are reading." Another Home Delivery patron has said, "You are my lifeline."

Who qualifies for the service?
Any resident of Oak Park who is temporarily or permanently unable to come to the Library because of illness, disability, or injury is eligible for our free Home Delivery Service. You must also have an Oak Park Public Library card.

What if I do not have an Oak Park Public Library card?
If you currently do not have an Oak Park Public Library card a form will be sent to you as a part of the library card application process. Home Delivery patrons do not need to show proof of residency in Oak Park to obtain an Oak Park Public Library card.

How do I request the service?
Call librarian Irene Balks at 708-452-3473 or email her at to request Home Delivery Service. Please give your name, address, telephone number, and library card number. You will then be entered in the Library computer as "Home Delivery."

What library materials can I receive through the service?
Home Delivery patrons can receive large-type or regular print books, books on tape, books on compact discs (CDs), magazines, and music on CDs, videotapes, and DVDs are loaned for a three-week period. The Library also offers a number of large-type books in paperback.

How does the service operate?
Requests for materials to be delivered are taken once a week. Some Home Delivery patrons call the Library each week. Other patrons are called by library staff each week. You may make requests for specific materials or general requests for materials. For example, some Home Delivery patrons request three mysteries on a weekly basis and Irene Balks makes the selection. Library materials are delivered each week on Friday mornings. Currently library volunteers make the deliveries.

Do I pay for the service?
The Home Delivery Service is free.