Database:ASC
Public libraries or librarians = 63438
Programming or programs or outreach= 7736
Bookmobiles= 19
Full text =19
2004-2008= 4
First Hit:Title:
DCPL Set To Deploy Four Bookmobiles.
Authors:
Oder, Norman
Source:
Library Journal; 10/15/2006, Vol. 131 Issue 17, p19-20, 2p
Abstract: The article discusses the deployment of three new bookmobiles (for a total of four) by the District of Columbia Public Library in Washington DC which will serve communities which have been effected by branch closures. The bookmobiles will be staffed with three people each, and will contain media materials and public access computers in addition to books.
Reflection: The article goes on to explain that not only were the bookmobiles used to serve communities whose libraries were closed for renovation but that these bookmobiles were full service rolling libraries including programming in collaboration with community agencies like the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts. These bookmobiles were also fully equipped with computers for the patrons as well. Once community libraries were complete the bookmobiles were still used for other community outreach.
Successive hits dealt with bookmobiles and their traditional and new uses within a library's community. Some of the issues touched upon were bookmobiles as community rolling community centers, outreach for senior citizen centers and schools.
In light of the economic issues facing even middle to upper middle class areas we have been hesitant to put a referendum on the ballot for a new building. Perhaps expanding into a bookmobile service is at least a temporary solution, vehicle costs, staff and insurance are far less expensive than building a new facility.
