Holiday Cheer For Homebound Seniors

Queens Library Mail A Book brings library materials and socialization to the borough's homebound library customers.

And this year, they will bring a little New Year's cheer, as well.

Mail A Book will hold a special New Year's eve "chat-by-phone" program and another on New Year's Day. Homebound customers must pre-register by phoning 718-776-6800. The program is free.

Customers are then provided with a toll-free phone number, and will have the opportunity to spend some quality time with old and new friends for the holiday.

Mail A Book coordinator Madlyn Schneider said, "I came up with the idea when some of my call-in customers talked about how lonely they are during the holidays and that the New Year is particularly hard for them."

As an adjunct to delivering library books and videos, Mail A Book holds quality programs twice a week for homebound customers. They include a weekly Friday morning chat, where library customers can socialize and share with others who share similar lifestyles and limitations.

Recently, the Metropolitan Museum of Art conducted a three-session lecture series. Artwork was photographed and sent to participants ahead of time so they could all view the artwork
together.

Other times, the group plays bingo and trivia games and has book discussions. Customers can also phone in to hear concerts or drama programs being held at the library.

For library users who are not mobile, loneliness and lack of mental
stimulation can be a terrible challenge; live, interactive programs make a tremendous difference.

Queens Library's Mail A Book service and live programs are available
free to anyone who lives, works, goes to school or owns property
anywhere in New York State. To register, call 718-776-6800.