New Bedford residents who can no longer make the trip to their local library can still get the novels and movies they love through a mobile library service that brings the library to them.

The city’s Mobile Library van, a new smaller version that can be driven by any library staff person, makes trips to homes for people who have difficulty getting to library branches on their own, whether from temporary illnesses or long-term mobility challenges.

“It’s much easier to navigate city streets, and any member of the staff can drive it, whereas the larger vehicle required a driver with a Commercial Driver’s License,” said Library Director Olivia Melo in a city media release. “New Bedford is fortunate to have five library buildings across the city to meet the needs of residents, but we were lacking a way to bring library services to those who find themselves unable to get to a library branch.”

Using the mobile library van, branch manager Ned Denby said they will bring the books people ask for to them, or if they aren’t sure what they want, they’ll bring a selection of books from the genres the person loves most.

“It’s up to them,” they said. “If they have a specific author or series they want, they can let me know.”

If people share books they’ve enjoyed in the past, Denby will also use their best judgement to choose similar books for the individual. The library also has a selection of books on CDs, which work well for people who have vision difficulties, they said, as well as movies on DVDs.

Denby said the program started in January with regular visits to local housing and apartment complexes where older adults live. (See the biweekly schedule at right.) Jan. 1 falls in week one, although the schedule will begin on Thursday that week in recognition of the New Year’s holiday, they said.

“At the regular stops I make at facilities like Tripp Towers, I bring in a cart of books in regular and large print and, when possible, a small selection of DVDs or audiobooks on CD,” they said via email. “I’m (also) able to deliver holds and pick up returns.”

For new patrons, Denby said, “It’s helpful if they have a library card already set up, but if not, I can plan for a longer first visit to get them registered.”

The program is for New Bedford residents only. Book visits can be scheduled by using an online form at https://forms.gle/SGp2iewRmt2rGUAp9, by calling Denby at 508-979-1703, or emailing them at ndenby@sailsinc.org.

Books are kept for a month and returned with a second van visit.