Home Delivery | Scarborough Public Library

Home Delivery for the Homebound “Brings the Library to Your Door…” The Library provides free delivery of materials twice a month to Scarborough residents unable to visit the Library due to long or short-term illness, immobility or age. This service is also provided to residents living in residential or nursing care facilities. Books, audiobooks, magazines and DVDs are delivered by staff or volunteers and Librarians can visit to show you how to use our eBook systems, catalog or other digital resources. Contact the Reference Desk at 883-4723 option #4 to request home delivery or email the Library at askSPL [at] scarboroughlibrary.org.

For those who have difficulty seeing the printed word, the Library also has information about Library Services for People with Disabilities administered by the Maine State Library for the Library of Congress.

Brochure

Application

FAQs

What is Home Delivery?

The Scarborough Public Library offers free delivery of materials to Scarborough residents unable to visit the Library because of age, illness, disability or other incapacitating circumstances. Delivery is scheduled according to temporary or long term needs and services are tailored to your personal interests. We strive to offer the same access to information, both recreational and reference, that you would have when visiting the Library in person.

What can I request?

Any material that circulates can be requested through Home Delivery. You may request specific titles or our staff will be happy to select materials based on your interests. If the Library does not own a book you would like to read, we can try to borrow it from another library. Basic reference information is also available by phone at 883-4723 option 4 or email at askSPL [at] scarboroughlibrary.org.

How many items will I receive?

This depends on your preference. Most people find that 4 to 5 items per delivery is enough to keep them engaged. We can adjust the number at any time.

When will I receive them?

Materials are delivered to your door twice monthly by friendly staff or volunteers. Mutually convenient delivery times may be arranged.

How do I register for this service?

If you or someone you know would benefit from this service, contact Adult Services at 883-4723 option 4 or fill out and mail us this form. We will contact you shortly.

What are some related services?

Collections for Institutions:

Nursing homes and senior housing complexes can receive a temporary collection of materials including large and regular print books. These collections are selected and sized with the particular readers in mind and are rotated twice monthly.

Collections for the Visually Impaired:

The Maine State Library offers materials for the visually impaired through its Federally-funded “Talking Books” program. Recorded books and special players are available to qualifying persons. Call Toll-Free 1-800-762-7106 or visit their website.

(Please note that this program is facilitated by the Maine State Library and all questions should be directed to them.)