From family tragedies to surprise parties and everything in between, conversations between Home Library volunteer Judy Orban and her borrowers can be colourful and varied.
An avid reader and library user, Judy said her new role was a perfect fit and an opportunity to give back to the community.
“I look at it as paying it forward as I’m probably not far off that situation myself,” she said.
“In the future, if I can’t get to the library I hope that someone might be able to drop a couple of books around for me to read.
“I like to think that I’m giving some of the clients a bit of joy, satisfaction and companionship, even if it’s only for five to 10 minutes.”
Val is the first borrower Judy visits on a recent home library run. The 87-year-old, who gave up driving about a year ago, said it’s an important service for the elderly.
“It’s a great innovation. I can’t get the library so they come to me and it helps a lot,” she said.
“I love reading and I love the stories. It gets your mind off all your other worries when you’re into a good book, doesn’t it?”
Kath lives nearby and once the book exchange has been completed the conversation starts to flow. She shows Judy a humorous birthday card from her son while she’s full of praise for the organisers of a High Tea she attended recently.
The 80-year-old said she was appreciative of the service and Judy’s willingness to have a chat.
“It’s wonderful because I don’t like driving to the library, I don’t like driving around other cars. I’m using the car to shop and go to church, other than that I don’t use it.”
Another borrower June greets Judy at the door with an ice cream in hand.
“I missed lunch, so I thought I know what I feel like,” she said with a wry grin.
The 87-year-old said the Home Library visit was a highlight every fortnight.
“It means a great deal because I can no longer get to the library,” she said.
“I can no longer drive or walk far and things like that. Reading means an awful lot to me and without it I would feel quite lost.”
For more information on the Home Library service contact the Mossman Library (ph 4099 9496).
