Celebrating 50 Years of Homebound Services
In the 50 years since 1972, the Falmouth Public Library has delivered just shy of a quarter of a million library books, movies, audiobooks and magazines to Falmouth residents who were unable to visit the library due to illness, injury or other reasons through our Homebound Library Service.
Without interruption, FPL’s Homebound Service has continued through 8 US presidents, 5 library directors, 5 economic recessions and enormous technological changes. Despite the arrival of ebooks, most library users continue to prefer physical books and to make use of DVDs and CD audiobooks.
The Beginning
In 1972, recently retired Library Director, Hazel Atwood, envisioned a service for shut-ins and created a volunteer home delivery service to provide library books to local residents. Assisted by Laurie McNee, FPL’s now retired North Falmouth Branch Librarian, Mrs. Atwood delivered books in her own white Buick Skylark. Although Mrs. Atwood began winding down her volunteer commitment due to her husband’s illness by 1979, the delivery service was so popular that the Falmouth Public Library created a paid part-time position to continue it. Laura Wool, already a staff member at FPL, became the Library’s first Homebound Librarian.
Today
Laura Wool visits patrons at home or in local facilities every three weeks. According to Laura, many new patrons find out about the Homebound Service through word-of-mouth from family, friends or neighbors. Service can be provided on a short-term basis in case of injury or surgery, or on an ongoing basis if needed. Residents can provide a specific list of titles, or Laura will also assemble a delivery based on specific interests and preferences. Just call the library to begin the process. Laura is available Monday-Fridays from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, when she isn’t on the road making deliveries.
Words of Appreciation
The Falmouth Public Library is both proud and grateful for the support of the town in providing this needed and much appreciated service for the past five decades to countless residents. We hope to continue it for many years to come!
Here are some words of appreciation from some residents who have benefited from the service.
” You have no idea how much you have enriched my life. In this time of all the stress and worry in this world you are a ray of sunshine…You have helped me out with a life line to the books that helped keep me on an even keel.”
“One never appreciated the convenience of a handicapped society until one has been there. I am so thrilled to have books delivered to my door as this is my main recreation and I can’t manage a trip to the library.”
“Thank you again for the variety of books which you’ve shared with Mom over the year. Your visits have meant a good deal to us!”
“Your service to shut-ins was invaluable to me and I am sure many others, and then to have it come in the delightful person of Laura Wool is an added bonus as she gives a great lift to the day.”
Our 50th Anniversary Celebration
On May 12th from 12:00 to 2:00 pm, the Falmouth Public Library will be holding an Open House to celebrate their 50 years of service. The public is invited to attend, to reminisce and learn more about FPL’s Homebound Services. Please join us!