Bookmobiles: How Libraries and Technology Travel Together
Historically, libraries have always embodied technology; indeed, libraries are technology. Just like technology, constructed by human knowledge, libraries apply methods, systems, and techniques to create tools and processes that make information acquisition easier and more effective. Both are always evolving. One example of how libraries and technology are intertwined is through the evolution of the bookmobile.
The first bookmobiles in the United States date back to the early 1900s. The technology used then was the horse-drawn wagon, designed and engineered to deliver books to those in rural areas. Similarly, FDR’s Kentucky Pack Horse Library Project in the 1930s (which inspired Kim Michelle Richardson’s historical novel, The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek), involved women riding on horses, mules, and donkeys. These brave women traversed difficult terrain to deliver reading materials to impoverished schools and homes in Appalachia. Yes, the first “traveling libraries” started out with the domesticated horse and, as with all technologies, they have rapidly evolved alongside brave new librarians.
As motorized vehicles became more popular, the 1960s and 1970s saw a significant increase in bookmobiles across the country. But no matter what the specific technological form of transportation – horse, van, car, bus, bike, or boot – today they remain instrumental in providing access to library and educational resources to those who can’t easily reach a public library. Besides serving diverse communities with common library materials and promoting literacy, modern mobile library programs have expanded to provide technology tools, community resources, and even meals.
Public libraries with portable programs may vary in what they offer, from delivering specific book requests to providing a vast array of library materials for the pleasure of browsing. Beyond just the ability to check books in and out using the library’s digital circulation system, more library mobilized vehicles are becoming equipped to offer advanced technologies. Today, using wi-fi hotspots, mobile libraries can provide 3D printers, makerspace tools, eBooks, e-readers, and online database access. Wherever they go, they become a social gathering space, decked with portable seating and shaded areas where patrons can tap into these tech tools or simply relax with a good book.
As an IT services provider, AVC supports these advances in technology. Many amazing libraries that partner with AVC offer their own unique mobile library. Some refer to their program specifically as the “Bookmobile.” Other libraries use terms such as: Walking Books Program, Homebound Services, Book Dash, Outreach Services, Words on Wheels, or simply with a friendly invitation:
“Do you want materials delivered to your door? Our librarians are happy to help you! Feel free to request this service by emailing or calling,” (Shelbyville Public Library).
But, whatever they’re called, these traveling libraries are more than just bookmobiles. They can be makerspaces, tech hubs, and community centers, and AVC is here to help keep them moving on the road together, libraries and technology!
-Written by our very own, Lindsey Trostle