Although all of the public libraries in Nassau County are independent and make their own decisions about which services they will offer and how they will deliver those services to their communities, the Nassau Library System and the Suffolk Cooperative Library System co-sponsor some services including the Long Island Talking Book Library.

This service lends free books on cassette to people who are unable to see well enough to read standard printed material, cannot physically hold a book, including people with severe arthritis or MS, or have trouble processing visual information.

"In almost all cases, a librarian can print out an application form from the web and certify it for the individual," said Elizabeth Olesh, Manager of Outreach Services for the Nassau Library System. "This is not true for people with learning disabilities, who must have a doctor or psychologist certify the form."

Generally, people make their selections by speaking with a librarian, either over the phone or by e-mail. Olesh explained that the cassettes are then mailed to the home and are mailed back, free of charge. A special cassette player is also provided.

A majority of the libraries offer homebound services to residents or some type of service for people who are unable to get to the library due to a disability, but each individual library determines who is eligible and how the service is provided.

Some libraries offer the service to anyone in the community who is unable to get to the building, whether this is due to a temporary disability, such as a broken leg or a recent surgical procedure, or a major disability.

"I consider this to be a best practice because it helps people stay connected to the larger community and enables them to be as independent as possible, without relying on an aide, friend, or family member to pick up their library materials" said Olesh, who also said that other libraries require a doctor's letter stating that the individual is permanently unable to leave his or her home.

"Public libraries are local community agencies," said Olesh. "They want to hear from the people they serve and offer services that their communities need. If you are not sure if your library offers services for the homebound, or if you would like to suggest that they start such a service, you need to ask."

If you are a senior citizen who does not drive and has trouble getting around, or a person confined at home because of a handicap or illness, you may be eligible for Homebound Service offered by the Westbury Memorial Public Library and the East Meadow Public Library.

Westbury/Carle Place Library patrons who are unable to visit the library due to physical limitations should contact Ali at 333-0176, ext. 132 to make use of this valuable service. In East Meadow, in order to receive Homebound Services, a physician's note is required stating that the patron is unable to get to the library. To obtain an application, contact Community Services Librarian and Homebound Liaison MaryEllen Fosso at 794-2570, ext. 216.

For additional information on the Long Island Talking Book Library (LIBTL) you can also contact LITBL directly at (866) 833-1122.