Most of us come to the library anytime we want; to borrow something, use a printer or computer, or just to enjoy a quiet space. But what if you couldn’t get here? How would you get books or movies, especially if you didn’t have internet service at home? Who would help you stay connected to the outside world, to continue learning?

A few weeks ago, we explained how our Youth Outreach team travels through the community to bring story trails, literacy and tech programs to children and teens. Did you know that we also have services for adults outside the library walls?

If you can’t come in person, we will bring the library to you. Plenty of people have physical barriers that prevent them from visiting the library and don’t have a family member or friend who can help. Whether you’ve just had surgery, a new baby, if you cannot drive or use public transportation, or if you have physical limitations that prevent you from coming inside, we’ve got you covered. We will bring the library to you, tailoring what you want to a delivery schedule and frequency that fits both our schedules and your needs. This service is done through Adult Outreach and we have two staff members at RML who are dedicated to those efforts. Anne Duffy is the librarian who oversees the program and Katie Clements, also a librarian, assists.

How does it work?

Selecting materials in outreach can look different for each person. No two people use the library the same way when they’re here and that doesn’t change when we’re bringing the library to you. Sometimes, we have a specific list of books or movies to find; sometimes it’s a list of favorite authors. Other times, it’s just genres and subjects of interest. What happens in Adult Outreach is really the same service we offer when you walk in our doors – you ask a question, give us some information, and we work to connect you with the material you’re looking for.

Right now, Anne and Katie are selecting materials for over 70 people and delivering those materials in Ravenna township and city two days each week. Each person receives their delivery packed into a canvas bag tagged with their name. Anne and Katie pack materials into bags, pack the bags into totes, and load it all into a wagon to get it to their vehicle. Once a delivery route is completed, the process happens in reverse. Katie finds the work rewarding. “Getting to interact with people who may be unable to visit the library and bringing library services out in the community is something I enjoy immensely. I’m so happy I have the opportunity to form these relationships and offer our services to anyone who needs them.” In some cases, we provide senior apartment complexes and facilities with a rotating “bookshelf” of items for their residents to borrow, using that institution’s library card. Residents sign out and return books right from their community rooms.

Is it just a delivery service?

No, it’s more than just selecting and delivering materials. Our staff also bring library programs for adults to facilities and community organizations. From book discussion groups, tech and craft classes, to local history lectures, we provide many kinds of programs outside the library walls. We work closely with area activity coordinators and facility staff to determine what their residents will find the most valuable and then create a program to take to them. Anne lives outside Ravenna but the outreach work has given her an insider’s view. “Since we’re responsible for delivering materials and bringing events and resources to the community, I get to see how Ravenna works,” she explains. “This community pulls together in really valuable ways and it’s a privilege to be a part of that. I love when a patron tells me that they’re loving the books that I’m picking for them or when I get to do crafts or events with local organizations and see how the community shows up and is genuinely excited to do something together.”

Want to request this service for someone you know? Are you wondering how to get it started for yourself? Visit reedlibrary.org/outreach or you can call 330-296-2827 extension 503 and talk with Anne or Katie. They’ll listen to what you need, walk you through the process, get a feel for the kind of materials you like, and get you on the schedule. Deliveries are Tuesdays and Thursdays, but every other part of outreach is customized to you.

Are you interested but don’t live in Ravenna city or township? If you live somewhere else in the county, Portage County District Library and Kent Free Library both offer similar services so please get in touch with them. Don’t miss out on anything your library offers, just because you can’t physically get there.