On the Road with Outreach: Bookmobile Stops

Submitted by Lorraine Lane

Have you ever wonder what goes into establishing a new bookmobile stop? Well, I am so glad you asked. 😀 Currently the Bookmobile visits 24 areas in the county each month. Our travels take us into neighborhoods, apartment complexes, manufactured housing communities and school parking lots. 

How does a location become a stop? Our goal for route planning was a direct result of the 2017–2022 Strategic Plan. The goal was to launch bookmobile service to reach traditionally underserved populations, including those who have difficulty visiting library branches. It can be quite a daunting task to consider where to take the bookmobile. 

This process began by looking into neighborhoods in proximity to Title One schools, as well as areas in the furthest recesses of the county. Talking with school counselors provided us with additional areas to look into. Once we have a list of potential stops, we utilize the county school's website to review bus stop locations. To align a bookmobile stop around the time and in the area of a school bus stop is a win. Armed with all of this information we travel to the community in the library van to assess the lay of the land. Some of the things we are looking for is the ability to maneuver the bookmobile safely, as well as how many children get off the bus. 

Recently, I was in an area of the county, not on a route scout, when I noticed 15 children exiting the bus. I just knew that we had to establish a stop at this small apartment community. 

There is always a level of anticipation on the Outreach team when you visit a stop for the first time. During the first visit at Holly Creek apartments, Katie and I were overjoyed at the reception we received. One little fella shared that it was the best day of his life!  

We are continually reviewing the route, adding new stops to replace underperforming stops. Sometimes we shorten the time onsite or look for other areas in the community to park to boast awareness. We are always looking to explore different areas of the county. If you have an area of the county that you think would benefit from a bookmobile stop, please let us know. 

                                                                                       Our new friends at Holly Creek apartments hamming it up.