Library Expands Services For Homebound Patrons In Santa Clara Co.

SANTA CLARA COUNTY, CA — The Santa Clara County Library District has made it easier for homebound library-district residents to receive items they want from their various library branches.

Locals confined at home for three or more months — no matter the reason — can designate individuals to pick up books, movies or other itmes for them at their local library or the SCCLD Bookmobile, officials said.

“This new policy provides convenience and ensures that our patrons can obtain books, movies and other items with more ease and potentially, greater frequency,” said County Librarian Nancy Howe. Currently, library staff delivers items requested by registered homebound patrons approximately once a month.

While the program is now considered small, with just under 100 participants, the homebound-services effort is important to non-ambulatory seniors, persons with disabilities and incapacitated individuals who rely on them, directors said.

Homebound persons can specify a "designated borrower" by filling out an application on SCCLD’s website.

Another change that recently went into effect allows the ability to renew most items up to three times. That change allows patrons to renew books and other materials for a third time from home, on their personal electronic devices or library checkout machines, so long as there are no holds on the items and the items qualify for renewal. The length of time eligible items can be checked out remains three weeks at a time, the agency said.

“These great measures will help people whose lack of mobility would otherwise limit their access to library materials,” said County Supervisor and Library Joint Powers Authority Board Chairman Mike Wasserman. “Once again, SCCLD is working hard to make library services more convenient and accessible for all patrons.”

• ALSO SEE: Crab Feeds: 2020 Guide To All-You-Can-Eat Feasts In SF Bay Area