Georges River Council Library staff are undertaking 'Care Calls' to elderly people in the local area to support the most vulnerable in the community during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The council is also providing iPad loans for seniors, to help them stay in touch with loved ones and access key online support.
Georges River Council mayor Kevin Greene said the Care Calls enable the council to maintain contact with its community during the COVID-19 pandemic.
"More than 33 million people visit NSW public libraries each year - they are not only a place of collaboration and learning, but also of social connection and community," Councillor Greene said..
"The unfortunate temporary closure of Georges River Libraries and Home Library Services brought about by COVID-19 has seen Council adapt to the new normal, with library staff now checking in with Home Library Service members by phone on a regular basis.
"The purpose of these calls is to check on the wellbeing of the most vulnerable in our community such as the elderly and housebound, who are not able to access services online and may feel particularly isolated.
"Feedback on the program from recipients has been positive and we're encouraging community members who feel that they or someone they know could benefit from a care call, to get in touch with Council," Cr Greene said.
Peakhurst resident, Roma Dixon, one of approximately 50 residents now receiving the regular Care Calls.
"I'm looking forward to the Home Library Service starting again, but I've also really been enjoying my regular call too," Roma said
"It is something that I look forward to each week."
Georges River Council has also partnered with 3 Bridges Community, Telstra Partners and Moorup Technology to loan pre-loved iPads to self-isolating seniors.
They come pre-loaded with key mobile apps and access to government services like Centrelink and Services NSW. Support from a 3Bridges or Georges River Library staff member is offered, to help seniors navigate what may be completely new technology for them.
If you or someone you know could benefit from an iPad loan, please call 1300 327 434 and ask for Caroline or Vanessa.
To find out more about Georges River Libraries Care Calls, email library@georgesriver.nsw.gov.au or call 9330 6400.
Georges River Libraries online offers a diverse range of digital resources, including ebooks, eAudiobooks, eComics, eMagazines and access to over 265,000 free online tutorials through Lynda.com. All you need is a library card, sign up online at Georgesriver.spydus.com
