Forsyth County Public Library, Winston-Salem, North Carolina

The Adult Outreach Program

Through its Adult Outreach Program, the Forsyth County Public Library in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, provides library services to adults over the age of eighteen, who might not otherwise be able to visit the library. Originally funded by a 1972 grant, the program now receives all funds from the library budget, maintains its own collection, and currently employs two staff members. Between Monday and Friday, the employees visit homebound individuals, as well as fifty-two institutions such as retirement communities, hospitals, congregate meal sites, and correctional facilities. During the visits, they provide simple programs and distribute library materials, including large print books and books on tape. Employee Jackie Jones believes that many individuals and groups served may consider herself and her coworker as "friendly visitors," a possible reason for the popularity and longevity of the program. Web site: http://www.co.forsyth.nc.us/library/psao.html

Sources

Forsyth County Public Library. (n.d.). Policies and services. Retrieved
November 30, 2001, from http://www.co.forsyth.nc.us/ library/psao.html

Jones, J. (2001). Telephone interview. November 30, 2001.