The Rock Island Public Library recently introduced a Homebound Resources service to deliver library materials to Rock Island and Milan residents who are temporarily or permanently homebound. 

“Though we’ve always allowed patrons to designate an official representative to pick up and return materials for them, that’s sometimes not convenient or even possible,” said Victoria Schoess, Director of Circulation Services for the Rock Island Public Library. “We created the Homebound Resources service to deliver materials to those who don’t have a representative and can’t get out.” 

Homebound Resources delivery is available to Rock Island Public Library cardholders in the Rock Island and Milan areas only. Patrons may choose once per week or once per month contactless delivery and pick-up. Times are set by appointment. 

To choose which materials they receive, Homebound patrons may place items on hold, or sign up for personalized book picks from library staff.  Patrons record their reading preferences through the form available in the Homebound Resources brochure. 

“If their library card has lapsed due to inactivity, we can also help them apply for a new one,” said Schoess. Other at-home options include using the library’s digital eBook, audiobook, movies, music, and magazine services, which can be used with either a full-access or digital-only Rock Island Public Library card.  

To learn more about how to apply, contact Ms. Schoess at 309-732-7350, email RILIBCirc@rigov.org  or write Rock Island Public Library, Circulation Department, 401 19^th Street, Rock Island, IL  61201. Details and the Homebound Resources brochure are also available under the  Questions tab of the library website.

Designated representative pick-up will also continue. To add a designated representative to your library account, call the Rock Island Public Library Circulation Department at 309-732-7323 (READ.)