Library Access for Homebound Residents
Manatee Libraries offers free delivery of library materials to Manatee County library patrons who are not able to access our facilities due to a temporary or long-term physical or visual disability. While there is no fee for this service, any lost items would be the responsibility of the patron.
Eligibility Requirements
A registration form for this service must be on file in order for a patron to borrow by mail. Materials may only be mailed to a Manatee County address. A patron must also apply for a Manatee County library card if he/she is not presently a member.
Books by Mail Online Registration Form
Printable Books by Mail Registration form
About the Program
Formats available through this program include:
- Large print materials (Items designated as ‘New’ large print are not eligible for loan)
- Audiobooks (on CD)
- Descriptive DVDs
- Playaways (pre-loaded MP3 players that require headphones and batteries)
Via Books by Mail, patrons may borrow up to three items at a time. All items circulate for a six-week period and may be renewed by calling the library or managing the account through the library’s online catalog. The library staff will use the information about reader preferences from the registration form to select items for the patron.
All patrons must agree to provide access to their reading records in order for "Books by Mail" staff to avoid duplicate mailings of materials. Books By Mail patrons are unable to utilize the Interlibrary Loan service to borrow books from outside of Manatee County.
Books by Mail patrons may also come to the library and use their card as a regular borrower. Regular borrowers can check out up to 50 items at a time, including regular print books, Large Print books, audiobooks, all “New” materials, and a maximum of 20 DVDs.
All materials checked out in person at the library will have regular loan periods and MUST be returned in person (not via the US Postal Service). A family member, friend, or caregiver CAN bring your library card to the library and check out any materials for you.
For additional questions or to register, please call (941) 723-4821 or email [email protected]
Forms may also be mailed to:
Books by Mail
Rocky Bluff Library
6750 US Highway 301 North
Ellenton, FL 34222-3030
Books by Mail Guidelines and Frequently Asked Questions