Coffs Harbour Housebound Library Service Profile - December 2024

A Snapshot of Coffs Harbour:

As of 2021 Australian Census, the Coffs Harbour LGA had a population of 78,759

• 10,894 or 13.8% are ‘Empty Nesters and Retirees’ (60-69)
• 10,532 or 13.4% % are ‘Seniors’ (70-84)
• 2,320 or 2.9 % are ‘Elderly (85 and over)

30.1% of the LGA population is 60 and over.

• 9,518 (12%) have arthritis, compared to 8.4% of NSW
• 823 (1%) have dementia, compared to .8% NSW

An insight into our Home Library Service:

The Coffs Harbour Libraries Housebound Library Service delivers library materials to residents’ homes within the Coffs Harbour local government area. Those who are unable to get to the library physically through age, disability or illness can apply to have library materials home delivered. We deliver books, talking books, magazines, CDs, DVDs, brain training, simple puzzles and information about local services to residents who qualify for this free service.

• Staffing: 1 full-time housebound library officer, .2 casual library assistant. Currently 42 hours of staff time.
• Volunteers: 2 volunteer van drivers for HLS, giving an average of 6 hours per week each. Currently 12 hours of volunteer time.
• Home Delivery customers: currently 90 individuals
• Service to Aged care and Nursing Homes: 9 Aged Care providers in the Local Government Area.
• Select and deliver up to 752 library items per month
• Deliveries 2 x per week, 8 area deliveries per month.

Updated 04/02/25 - Kate Simpson, Housebound Library Services Officer