Milan's Biblio Express Delivers Library Books to Homebound Residents

The Municipality of Milan has launched Biblio Express, a book delivery service from public libraries to residents over 70 and those unable to leave home due to COVID-19 or health reasons. The service employs 66 volunteer staff from the Area Biblioteche del Comune, who act as 'culture riders' using public transport, cargo bikes, or a service van. Additional riders will be selected from guests of the Casa di accoglienza Enzo Jannacci, providing job training. As of early December 2020, 235 users have received books, films, and other materials. Users can request items by phone or email, and delivery is scheduled. The service will expand through collaboration with Ugo, a social network supporting elderly and vulnerable people, with nine operators available until January 31, 2021. For the general public, a pick-up service at LIM (Librerie Indipendenti Milano) bookshops and 36 newsstands associated with SNAG (Sindacato Nazionale Autonomo Giornalai) will launch on December 7, 2020, via the Sistema Bibliotecario di Milano online portal. Libraries have been closed since the Dpcm of November 3, 2020, halting all consultation and loan activities.