I have always been amazed at the number of programs and services our library offers.  Beyond in-library activities, we have a variety of outreach programs geared towards community members who might not make it into the library otherwise.  These include the BookBike, Books on Buses, Laundromat Libraries, and the longest-running, Home Delivery Service.

As Home Delivery Service Coordinator since June, I have been learning about the history of the program and the people it serves.  For nearly forty years, the library has been offering some form of Home Delivery, with the earliest deliveries made by a group of Eau Claire women to homebound individuals.  At its roots and in its current form, it is an outreach program that supports the library’s mission to promote lifelong learning and access to diverse materials and resources to enhance the quality of life in our community.

Tailored for those who are unable to visit the library in person due to health conditions, we rely on over thirty dedicated volunteers and our library van to deliver materials to assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and residences in Eau Claire.  Through a survey filled out during the application process, we personalize selections based on customers’ interests and needs, selecting materials from their favorite genres and authors.  Preferences are not just limited to books!  We also select audiobooks, CDs, DVDs, and magazines.  These handpicked materials are delivered every three weeks.  Home Delivery customers also enjoy access to our library’s digital media services, including e-books, e-audiobooks, online magazines, and music.

We are excited about this service and bringing the library to more members of our community.  If you or someone you know may qualify for Home Delivery Service, or if you are interested in being a volunteer, please reach out to homedeliveryservice@eauclaire.lib.wi.us or call us at 715-839-4857.

We look forward to hearing from you!