Home Delivery Clients FAQ

Library materials are available for loan free of charge to any resident of the Halifax Regional Municipality who is unable to visit the library due to disability, long-term illness, or caregiver responsibilities.

Are you wondering whether Home Delivery Services are right for you? The following questions and answers may help you decide.

Are only wheelchair users eligible?
Not at all. Anyone with a disability that prevents them from using a branch regularly may apply. Disabilities may include a visual disability, severe arthritis, a heart condition that prevents the client from carrying materials, or caregiver responsibilities.

But it’s just for senior citizens, right?
Home Delivery Service is not limited by age.

Do I have to provide a doctor’s certificate?
We accept applications for regular or large print Home Delivery Service on the honor system - no certificate needed. However, resources are limited, so we can’t offer Home Delivery to everyone; it’s meant for those who otherwise would be unable to enjoy library services.

Can I join temporarily, while I recover from an operation?
Yes. Also, some elderly clients sign up for the winter, but use branches in the summer when it’s easier to get around.

Is there a waiting period?
Deliveries go out every three weeks. Those who register early in the cycle may experience a waiting period. Some Home Delivery outlets are able to accept new clients immediately. Due to increased demand, others have had to set up waiting lists. Staff can take your application immediately, and will activate your service as soon as possible.

Can you just select books for me?
My friend can pick them up.
If you are a registered Home Delivery client, we are happy to select materials for pickup by personal volunteers at the outlet of your choice. We will check them out in advance. In order to plan our selection time, we will assign you a regular pickup day.

What if my books become overdue, or even lost?
Home Delivery Services clients are not charged overdue fines. However, you are responsible for the materials you borrow. Replacement costs are charged for lost materials, and service may be suspended to anyone with outstanding "lost" charges. If a lost item is later returned, you will get a full refund.

How much does it cost?
There are no user fees for Home Delivery Services.

If I sign up for Volunteer delivery, will the same person visit each time?
We try to match volunteers with the same clients each delivery. However volunteers sometimes have to cancel due to illness, vacations, or other commitments. Other volunteers (or staff) may be asked to fill the gap.

Why can’t I get Home Delivery Service where I live?
Halifax Public Libraries is expanding this service to new locations - most recently, the Sackville Public Library. Other outlets may be added as resources allow. But don’t feel you have to wait - call us now. We may be able to send materials to your nearest branch for pickup by someone you designate (a personal volunteer), or Books by Mail may be the option that best fits your needs.

Is it true the library keeps a record of everything I have borrowed? Who gets to see it?
Selections for Home Delivery clients are checked against a "has-read" file, to avoid sending duplicates. Only qualified library selectors can see that list. You may opt out of having a "has-read" file if you wish.

More questions? Please call us, and talk to a friendly selector.