Book Buddies Program to Bring Books and Discussions to Homebound Elders

Left to right: Janey Fryer, Joel Thiele, and Donna Alger

MALDEN, MASS.— From childhood we are encouraged to read, read, read. But what happens when we grow older and can’t easily get out to find new reading material? Reading may stop entirely. Not in Malden though. Mystic Valley Elder Services (MVES) and the Malden Public Library are establishing a program that asks volunteers to visit homebound patrons to deliver library books and discuss reading or other subjects. The program, called Book Buddies, will help isolated elders to continue their lifelong love of reading while providing socialization opportunities with visitors.

“Book Buddies will deliver new titles to elders, but it will also provide time for a little conversation with someone else who values reading,” said Janey Fryer, the literacy program coordinator at MVES. “It’s a wonderful extension of an existing program that’s been successful for many years.”

For close to 60 years, the Malden Public Library has delivered books to Malden residents who can’t leave their homes. For the past ten years, Reference Librarian Joel Thiele has carefully selected books according to an elder’s interests. Library personnel have delivered the books.

“Book Buddies builds on the library’s commitment by having visitors sit and talk with elders…to engage in welcome conversation,” said Fryer.

Homebound Malden residents who are interested in participating in Book Buddies should contact Joel Thiele at the library at 781-324-0218. Ten volunteers, over the age of 55, also are needed to deliver books and visit with elders once a month. The time commitment is about an hour per month. Please contact Laura Krebs at 781-324-7705 if you are interested in volunteering.