How the Visiting Library Service Transforms Lives
For many in London, a trip to the Library is a weekly ritual — a chance to browse the stacks, chat with staff, or discover a new favourite book. But for some in our community, a trip to the Library isn’t as simple as hopping on a bus or taking a short drive.
That’s where the Visiting Library Service (VLS) steps in, delivering books, DVDs, audiobooks, and more right to their doors. Each month, the VLS team carefully curates and delivers materials through 19 routes across the city, to patrons in long-term care centres, retirement residences, hospitals, nursing homes, and private homes.
“The Visiting Library Service is about removing barriers,” explains Vladimir Sorak (Vlado), the Public Service Librarian with VLS. “It’s designed for people who are homebound for three months or more due to disabilities, health issues, or other obstacles. While many think it’s only for seniors, we serve a variety of patrons, including younger individuals with specific needs.”
Patrons can either request specific titles or leave the selection to the Library staff. “We make every effort to match patrons’ unique preferences,” Vlado shares. “Whether it’s a favourite author or a specific genre, we want them to feel like they’re getting something special.”
But it’s not just the service that makes VLS impactful—it’s the people behind it who truly bring it to life.
Ted Demmerling, a driver who has delivered for VLS for nine years, goes out of his way to help patrons during his deliveries. “One time, I noticed a patron wasn’t doing well without her medication,” Ted recalls. “I made her some toast, got her a glass of water. It’s just what we do.” Not even bad weather stops the VLS team. “We’ve rarely miss a delivery,” Ted says. “Our patrons rely on us, and we do everything we can to be there for them."
One long-term patron, Tracey D., shared her story, which highlights how VLS isn’t just about delivering materials—it’s about making meaningful connections. Tracey wrote to share her gratitude:
“Thank you all so much for everything you have done for me. All the amazing books the team picked out for me over the past several years. Exposing me to new and exciting authors. And especially keeping my love of reading alive when I most needed the help. Your program is an amazing one… My gratitude is boundless and beyond words.”
Tracey’s story is one of many powerful examples we hear from our community. VLS has touched the lives of countless patrons in profound ways.
Vlado recalls another moment, this time with a patron’s daughter, who shared how much her late mother appreciated the program. “In this job, you become attached to the people you serve, even if you’ve never met them in person. Losing a patron is like losing a distant cousin or friend,” Vlado reflects. “Knowing we’ve brought comfort and joy in their final days is incredibly meaningful.”
The VLS team does their best to minimize obstacles and maximize a patron’s independence. For one patron who is visually impaired and uses a specialized DAISY player, the team loads several titles onto an SD card each month, so the patron can easily enjoy audiobooks. For someone with limited access to entertainment or resources, these materials provide a vital connection to the world. “Their partner recently told us how much this service has improved their quality of life,” Vlado shares.
Sometimes, it’s the little things that make the biggest difference. Ted remembers giving a tin of cookies to a patron who was having a tough time. “For some people, life isn’t easy,” he says. “A small gesture like that can mean so much.”
VLS also fosters a sense of community. The team helps organize book clubs in long-term care centres, delivering books and offering guidance. “It’s amazing to see how these groups bring people together,” Vlado says. “Books can spark memories, create conversations, and even inspire new hobbies.”
By making the Library accessible to everyone, regardless of their circumstances, VLS ensures that no one is left out of the joy of discovery and connection. “We love what we do,” Vlado explains. “It’s more than a job; it’s a way to connect with people and make a difference in their lives.”
Looking ahead, we hope to reach even more patrons. The Visiting Library Service is here to break down barriers, foster connections, and make life a little brighter for those who need it most. By bringing the Library to people’s homes, we’re showing that everyone deserves access to knowledge, entertainment, and community, no matter their circumstances.
We want to continue expanding this service and reaching those who might not know it’s available yet. If you or someone you know could benefit from the Visiting Library Service, applications are available online or at any Library branch. You can also contact VLS directly at visiting.library@lpl.ca or 519-661-6444.