Homebound Service

Do you or a loved one find it difficult to get to the library? We offer extra support and free personalized selection of books, audiobooks, and videos.

What is Homebound Service?

The Portage District Library loans a wide variety of print and non-print materials including books, large print books, audiobooks, music CDs, or movies and television shows on DVD to those who qualify for this service.

Who is eligible?

Individuals aged 16 years or older who have an established library card as a resident or paid membership, and due to various cognitive or mobility challenges are unable to visit the library. They may be dependent on another individual for transportation or picking up/returning materials on their behalf.

Applicable situations may include long-term illness, recovery from injury or surgery, limitations imposed by cognitive and/or physical abilities, or other serious health conditions.

What special benefits will I receive from enrolling in the Homebound Service?

The option for assistance with material selection. Although materials are free of overdue fines, charges resulting from non-return, loss or damage of materials still apply.

Because program participants are responsible for items checked out on their library card, please do not lend library books and audiovisual items to others. Participants will be charged the replacement cost for all materials that are not returned or lost/damaged while in their care. Library materials are considered lost when they are 28 days overdue. Repeated loss or damage to library items will result in the cancellation of your service.

What is the cost?

Once a patron’s library card is established, there is no additional fee to enroll in the Homebound program.

How does it work?

Materials are selected from the library and left at the library’s Checkout Desk or Hold Shelf for pick-up by a friend, family member, or even yourself. Members can call or email the library to request specific materials. They may also contact the library with an overview of their interests so that a staff member can pick out new materials for them. For those in care facilities, we can work with a representative from the facility to arrange for pick-up. However, the person who picks up the items must be the designated contact person or have the homebound member’s library card with them to check out materials through this program. We may ask the designated contact person to present their own photo ID before releasing any materials.

What is available?

Regular and Large Print books in paperback and hardcover; regular print children’s or teen books; talking books on CD or MP3 or Playaway device; movies on DVD; music CDs.

How do I sign up?

Fill out the online form below, or download and print the Homebound Services Application by clicking here, and returning it to the library via drop-off or mail. The Outreach Coordinator will contact you within 7-10 business days of receiving your completed form.