The Oak Park Public Library has offered a free Homebound
Service for over 30 years. The service has grown from serving
less than ten patrons to nearly 50 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 homebound patron reading the Harry
Potter novels said, "I want to see what those young people
are reading." Another homebound patron has said, "You
are my lifeline."
Who qualifies for the service?
Any Oak Park resident who is unable to get to the Library
due to a physical or mental disability, whether temporary
or permanent, can request Homebound 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. Homebound 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 Homebound Service. Please give your name, address,
telephone number, and library card number. You will then be
entered in the Library computer as "Homebound."
What library materials can I receive through the service?
Homebound patrons can receive large-type or regular print
books, books on tape, books on compact discs (CDs), and music
on CDs for a six-week lending period. Videotapes and DVDs
are loaned for a one-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 homebound patrons call the Library each week. Other homebound
patrons are called by library staff each week. You may make
requests for specific materials or general requests for materials.
For example, some homebound 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 Homebound Service is free.
The Library offers a number of large-type books in paperback.
While these large-type books are still large in size, their
paperback covers make them lighter in weight than the traditional
hard cover large-type books. With fewer sharp edges and corners
they are also gentler on the hands and easier to hold. These
books were purchased through the Project Light Touch grant
program which was funded in part by a 2004 Library Services
and Technology Act grant administered by the Illinois State
Library, a division of the Secretary of State's Office. For
more information about Project Light Touch or assistance finding
Project Light Touch books contact the Fiction and Audiovisual
Services Desk on the Second Floor of the Main Library at 708-452-3440.
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