Books by Mail

Books by Mail is a free service provided for individuals who live in the CALS service area (Pulaski and Perry counties) and are unable to leave home because of a temporary or permanent disability. To qualify, the following application must be completed by the applicant and approved by a library branch manager.

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Books by Mail FAQ

What is Books by Mail Service?

Books by Mail is a convenient way for homebound patrons who live in the CALS service area (Pulaski and Perry counties) to obtain and return books, audiobooks on CD, music on CD, and DVDs by mail at no cost.

Who is eligible for this service?

Books by Mail Service is available for individuals who live in the Central Arkansas Library System’s service area (Pulaski and Perry counties) and are unable to leave home because of a temporary or permanent disability. A valid library card and a completed application are required to participate.

The application must be approved by a library branch manager.

How does this service work?

You fill out the application and an reader interest survey. The survey asks about your reading interests. We need to know your preferences to help us select the books and other materials that you like. PLEASE NOTE: Only books, audiobook and music CDs, and DVDs are available to participants of this program.

If you check “please do not select books for me,” we will only send titles you have specifically requested. We will send you two items the first time. After these initial items are returned, you may request up to four items for delivery.

When you are finished, mail the materials in the library mailing bag back to the library at no charge.

How long can I keep materials checked out to me?

All materials checked out through the Books by Mail service are due 6 weeks after the day they are checked out. This longer loan period provides time for the materials to be delivered and returned through the mail.

How will materials be delivered to me? How should I return them?

The library will mail selections to you through the United States Postal Service. Materials will be sent in a reusable nylon bag that contains a pre-paid postage label. CALS fines will apply to these mailed materials if they are not received at the library by their due date. As soon as the returned materials are received, the library will mail you another selection.

How much does the Books by Mail Service cost?

This service is free to the qualified patrons of the Central Arkansas Library System who meet the requirements of the program.

Contact information

CALS Books by Mail
100 Rock St.
Little Rock, AR 72201

(501) 918-3032

booksbymail@cals.org