The library will utilize the RIOrover, a van purchased with funds raised by the New Braunfels Public Library Foundation earlier this year, according to a press release.
According to the library website, RIO stands for Reading and Inspiration Outreach.
In addition to the RIOrover, the library also operates a mobile library called the RIOmobile, operated by Outreach Librarian Jonathan Margheim, that helps residents who otherwise might not be able to visit the library on their own to access library materials.
However, due to the coronavirus pandemic RIOmobile services are temporarily suspended.
To be eligible for Homebound Services, a person must have a New Braunfels mailing address and possess, or be eligible for, a NBPL library card.
“Our homebound community members are limited in their ability to access services that others enjoy regularly,” Margheim said in a statement. “Our mission is to provide the community with equal access to environments that support and encourage lifelong learning and enrichment, and with the RIOrover we can now more actively support part of the community that was harder to reach in the past.”
Those interested in signing up for the program can access a registration form on the library’s website and will be assigned to a delivery route based on their home address.
Once registered, patrons will be able to request library materials online, via a printed request form or via email.
Materials will be delivered and returned through a contactless process by placing the items at the front door on scheduled delivery days.
For more information about Homebound Services, visit the library’s website or call 830-221-4300.
