Access the San Mateo Library Without Leaving Home

Did you know that our local library provides services that can make enjoying books so much easier for people that have trouble reading small print or making the trip to the library to pick up new reading materials?

If your eyes hurt after reading a few pages, eBooks and eAudiobooks are for you. You don’t have to buy them – the library has a huge selection, ranging from the latest best sellers to old classics, from cookbooks to investment advice to travel guides. If you have a tablet, smartphone or laptop you can borrow eBooks and eAudiobooks by downloading them onto your device. All you need is a library card. For eBooks, you can then make the print size so large you won’t need your reading glasses; on eAudiobooks you can turn up the volume to hear everything loud and clear. Visit the library’s website at www.smplibrary.org for details.

You may need some instruction on how to use this great service. The library will teach you, in one-on-one sessions. To sign up go to https://smplibrary.as.me/ebooks or call (650) 522-7818. Several times a year librarian Eric Groth also teaches an e-book class in conjunction with the Senior Center where you can learn how to get free eBooks, eAudiobooks, eMagazines, eMovies, and more with your library card. Sign up at https://www.cityofsanmateo.org/4495/Adult-Enrichment or check your Parks & Recreation Department Activity Guide.

If you prefer to read traditional books but are homebound and cannot go to the library, the library will come to you. An application for the library’s home delivery program for homebound patrons is available at https://www.cityofsanmateo.org/FormCenter/Library-Forms-10/Home-Delivery-117 or call (650) 522-7849 or (650) 522-7863 for more information.

This information is brought to you by the City of San Mateo Age-Friendly Task Force. Watch this spot for future articles highlighting one of the many valuable services offered to seniors by various organizations and agencies in San Mateo.