Library Tips for Caregivers  (Advance January 12, 2003)

 Have you got the January blahs?  Do you need some ideas for activities that will get you and the person you are caring for out of the house?  A visit to your local library may be just the answer.  Libraries are excellent sources of information to help with answers to caregiving questions and to familiarize you with the illness or disability with which you and your loved one are coping. Libraries are also places for entertainment and relaxation.  The Districts of Muskoka and Parry Sound have many libraries - large and small - with different collections, range of services, and hours of service.  Why not explore the many resources your library has to offer? 

 

1.  Use the library catalogue.  One good way to search for information is by subject - for example, caregiving, osteoporosis, family law.  Another easy method is to look up the location of a book you already know, using the title or author’s name.  You will probably find other relevant books, videos, government documents and other material.

 

2.  Check out periodicals.  Magazines and newspapers are a great source of current information.  Look through seniors publications such as Good times, 55 Plus, or ask for specialized periodicals dealing with health, caregiving, etc. such as Prevention Magazine.

 

3.  Talk to reference librarians.  Ask them to help you find information on a specific topic, identify local resources, look up articles in magazines, use government documents, or to recommend a good book.  If a book is not available in your local library, it may be able to be borrowed on inter-library loan, free of charge, from another library.

 

4.  Use the phone.  Save travel time by calling instead of visiting when you need simple information such as an address.  Ask for the reference desk.

 

5..  Visiting library service.  This outreach program of many libraries brings books to people who are unable to come to the library.  Library volunteers bring books to your home, return books and bring new selections for you to read.

 

6.  Learn about computers.  The library is also a wonderful place to take the leap into the world of computers and the Internet, whether or not you have one, or have ever used one.  You may want to come in to use a computer yourself (usually free of charge or at a very nominal cost).  The reference staff may use a computer to find you very current info on topics such as out of area phone numbers, health conditions or events in the community.  You might also enjoy one-on-one tutoring to learn how to access information on the Internet or how to send and receive e-mail.  It’s much easier than you think!

 

7..  Read the bulletin board.  Enquire about special programs and events that your local library may offer, such as readings by local authors, book clubs, second hand book sales, etc, and browse the library’s bulletin board.  Many community agencies distribute brochures and post information at libraries.  You’ll find announcements about community resources such as Meals on Wheels, caregiver support groups and workshops.