Residents of the village of River Forest can now request delivery and pickup of library materials to their homes. No longer will illness, inclement weather, or limited parking prevent RFPL cardholders from staying connected with their library and its services. "We've always offered delivery, but recently decided to expand the service to any patron who feels unable to come into the building, but wants to take advantage of all the great books, movies, and music available for check out", said Blaise Dierks, Adult Services Manager. "This effort is a natural outgrowth of the Library's strategic goal of making patrons feel welcome in the Library. We are just extending that gesture to include the entire two-and-a-half square miles of the Village."

The home delivery program is being managed by the Adult Services Department, under the direction of Dorothy Houlihan, one of the part-time librarians on staff at RFPL. She will work with patrons to customize the content and timing of their requests for delivery, while keeping track of borrowings to aid her in making suggestions based on each patron's interests.

Weather and time permitting, Houlihan will ride around the village on the Library's new, green tri-wheeler. The 'adult trike' boasts a generous basket to hold books and movies and a cheerful bell to alert villagers to her presence. "We wanted something eye-catching; something that would draw attention to our new service," said Sue Quinn, Head of Strategic Planning for RFPL. "We hope that seeing a librarian on a tricycle will pique residents' curiosity and help spread news of the delivery program." The tri-wheeler will also be used in the annual Memorial Day parade and at other Village events. Miss Ellen has even already ridden it to Lincoln School for a visit!

The purchase of the bicycle was made possible by a donation to the library. The late Mr. George Parry, a lifelong resident and civic leader of River Forest made a very generous donation to the library, a portion of which was used to pay for the bicycle. His lifelong support of the library will always be remembered.

Patrons interested in home delivery services can contact Dorothy by phone, at 708-366-5205, extension 316, or by email, at HomeDelivery@riverforestlibrary.org.