By ALEXANDRA NEWMAN

Westchester residents unable to visit Thomas or Hageman libraries, can get books and other materials delivered to them.

Westchester Public Library Homebound Library Service was reinstated in 2005, but many residents are unaware of this great service.

“We have such a terrific library. It’s a warm sociable place where people feel good about visiting, getting books and other library items,” said Anna Moore who, along with Ken Keller, are the Outreach Coordinators in charge of the service.

“We bring the library to them,” she said.

All one needs to do is call Thomas Library at 926-7696 and ask to be placed on the Homebound Service List. (One must have a WPL Library card and live in Westchester Twp.)

Either Anna or Ken will call to make an appointment for a first visit.

“We get to know them during that first visit,” Ken said, adding that they develop friendships as they continue to deliver books to the patrons.

“We verify the applicant has a library card and have them fill out a reader questionnaire,” she continued.

Anna said one 92 year-old-woman used to frequent the library, but had not checked out books because she had never had a library card. When she asked for this service, they were able to set her up with one.

Those who have low vision, have a list of large print books available. They also might enjoy the audio-books, which have become popular among a lot of people. Ken and Anna help them get hooked up with a machine for the audio books. The patron is allowed to keep the materials for a month, then mail them back to Lake County Library. When Lake County gets the returned audios, the library mails some new ones.

Sometimes people just want movies, others enjoy music. No matter, as long as they are available, they are delivered.

Some people want paper backs, some want hardbacks. Some ask for exact books, others just say the type of story they would like to read. Since Anna and Ken have the reader’s questionnaire to refer to, they know the individual’s preference.

Ken and Anna have the list of new books, fiction and non; best sellers on the New York Times list; mysteries, Oprah’s book list, and magazines and more.

“It’s like Avon calling,” Anna said about the service.

They also have a recommended reading list that is available also for patrons who can visit the library.

Although Anna and Ken do have a basic time frame, they are flexible enough to spend time enough for an occasional cup of coffee. Sometimes people only want books dropped off and picked up because they are not in the mood that day for a visit. Others look forward to their visits with coffee freshly brewed.

“They are always happy to see us,” Ken said, adding that they become their social contact with the outside world.

“I never miss an appointment at the nursing home,” Anna added. “So many of them are forgotten and look forward to our visits. And, some family members get involved once they realize how the program works.”

Ken delivers books on Mondays and Tuesdays and Anna delivers books on Wednesdays and Fridays.

For more information, call the Circulation Department and leave a message for the Outreach Coordinators. One of them will return your call.

Posted 12/17/2007