While Aurora’s colorful Bookmobile is a familiar sight at parks, schools, and community events, there’s another quieter, heartfelt service happening behind the scenes. The Aurora Public Library District’s (APLD) Outreach Services Department (OSD) is hard at work delivering joy and connection through its Deposit Collection and Home Delivery service. Essentially, it’s a library care package for residents of Aurora who live in assisted and independent living facilities or find themselves homebound, which we take great care in.
Each month, OSD staff deliver curated collections of large print books, audiobooks, and DVDs to assisted living facilities in Aurora. These materials are checked out for a longer duration and refreshed monthly by staff. This ensures variety and excitement, while allowing residents to enjoy them at their own pace. “There’s no need to rush through a book, unless they want to!” said OSD manager, Jessica.
This service is about more than just reading entertainment. It’s a lifeline for older adults, stimulating cognitive function and enhancing social connections. During their visits to independent living facilities, OSD staff provide programs, games, and craft activities in addition to bringing library items for checkout. “Enjoying a movie together or discussing a good book can spark conversation and create community,” added Jessica. Further strengthening connections and opportunities for growth and enrichment.
The OSD team doesn’t stop there! In addition to the deposit collections and interactive programs, they prepare and then deliver library materials directly to people’s homes. Individuals facing disability, mobility issues, lack of transportation, or caregiving responsibilities that limit their ability to visit the library can make Home Delivery requests. Laura, a beloved APLD staffer of 52 years, prepares these collections and has a special place in her heart for the home delivery customers. “Many have a love of reading and no way to get books. I love picking the ‘just right’ books for each of them—it’s like a bag of surprises waiting to be opened.”
Customers have shared their appreciation of the service with us. “Books have made a big difference in [the customer]’s attitude in getting better.” says a long-time customer. Another recipient adds, “I more than appreciate your walking through my healing process with these home deliveries.” Everyone in the community should be able to enjoy the library, whether it’s through reading, listening, watching, or interacting in other ways, and the OSD team is dedicated to ensuring that barriers are removed wherever possible.
So while the Bookmobile turns heads across Aurora, it is efforts like the Deposit Collection and Home Delivery service that truly showcase the heart of the Aurora Public Library District. With every delivery, the Outreach Services team brings not just books, but connection, care, and a reminder that the library is always here for you! Want to learn more? Call the Outreach Services Department at 630-723-2705 or visit our website www.aurorapubliclibrary.org/bookmobile.
Andrea Tiberi is the communications coordinator for the Aurora Public Library District.