For example, they use tape or paste to repair torn pages or book covers and other specialized processes to repair more valuable materials. Some library assistants specialize in helping patrons who have vision problems. They locate those materials or closely related substitutes from the library collection of large type or braille volumes, tape cassettes, and open-reel talking books. They complete the paperwork and give or mail them to the borrower. To extend library services to more patrons, many libraries operate bookmobiles.
Bookmobile drivers take trucks stocked with books to designated sites on a regular schedule.
Bookmobiles serve community organizations such as shopping centers, apartment complexes, schools, and nursing homes. They may also be used to extend library service to patrons living in remote areas. Depending on local conditions, drivers may operate a bookmobile alone or may be accompanied by a library technician. When working alone, the drivers perform many of the same functions as a library assistant in a main or branch library. They answer patrons' questions, receive and check out books, collect fines, maintain the book collection, shelve materials, and occasionally operate audiovisual equipment to show slides or films.