By Laura Michell
Hume residents can get lost in a good book during lockdown, with Hume Libraries launching a home delivery service.
The library express service launched last Tuesday, allowing library members to have books and DVDs delivered to their door.
Items can be reserved via the library catalogue, the Hume Libraries app, over the phone or by email and will be delivered by librarians.
People can also ask librarians to choose their next read for them.
Hume community services director Hector Gaston said the library express service was another way the council was striving to assist the community during the COVID-19 pandemic.
He said that while the Hume digital collections provided a huge range of book titles and were a fantastic learning resource for the community, some titles were not available in digital format and not all library members have access to digital devices or the internet at home.
“People access library resources at all ages for learning, entertainment and inspiration purposes so we wanted to ensure our library members could continue to access our physical collection while our branches are closed,” Mr Gaston said.
“Reading and viewing material is important for those in social isolation. Studies demonstrate that reading has a profoundly positive impact on mental health, particularly through the reduction of stress.”
To request books, visit: www.humelibraries.vic.gov.au, email libraries@hume.vic.gov.au or call 9356 6900 during business hours.
